After Iran defeat against Iraq in 2022 World Cup qualifier that put Team Melli’s chance to get through to the next round in risk, some sources claimed Belgian manager Marc Wilmots will replace by former Persepolis boss Branko Ivankovic.
Wilmots has took charge of Iran national team last May following Carlos Queiroz departure who had ended his 8 years tenure in Iran with two easy progress to 2014 and 2018 World Cup and reaching to semi-final of 2019 AFC nations cup.
Former Belgium manager had begun his stint with some inspiring results but two consecutive losses against Bahrain and Iraq jeopardize Iran’s chance of experiencing the first ever world Cup in Asia.
In recent days, some sources claimed Iran Football federation currently is assessing wilmots’ dismissal and recruiting Croatian Branko Ivankovic.
Ivankovic who had been Iran manager between 2002 and 2006, won Iran League with Persepolis three season in a bounce and departed last spring for Saudi club Al-Ahli where his time ended less than 3 months.
Branko posted a photo with Iran ambassador in Croatia last week that ignited the rumors but he claimed it was for the financial matters with former club Persepolis, not negotiating with Iran Football Federation.
It, however, seems Wilmots’ days as Iran manager numbered following recent results and another slip up will be his official farewell.