Wissam Ben Yedder (foto: Getty Images)
Former Ligue 1 star Wissam Ben Yedder is expected to join Iranian club Sepahan after off-field controversies damaged his reputation, effectively ending his top-flight European career.
Former French international and prolific striker Wissam Ben Yedder is set for a surprising move to Iran, as the tarnished forward edges closer to signing for Iranian giants Sepahan following recent controversies.
Ben Yedder was once among the most respected and prolific strikers in Ligue 1, boasting an impressive scoring record throughout his career. However, his reputation has been significantly damaged by recent events, particularly his conviction in November, which rendered him an outcast in European football.
According to French outlet RMC Sport, the 34-year-old striker will join Sepahan, one of Iran's largest clubs, for the remainder of the season. The deal reportedly includes an option for a contract extension.
Previously, Ben Yedder was linked with Italian club Venezia, but internal doubts led to the collapse of the deal. Now, his imminent transfer to Iran marks a surprising destination for the former Sevilla and Monaco star, who has struggled to find a club willing to risk backlash by signing him in Europe.
Ben Yedder’s impressive career stats reflect his talent: scoring 161 goals in 161 Ligue 1 appearances and an additional 70 goals in 138 matches during his successful spell with Sevilla in Spain.
The 34-year-old forward will become one of the highest-profile signings in Iranian football history, aiming to revive his career and repair his damaged image far from the European spotlight.