Persepolis opposes cancellation of match against Kheybar

The Iranian Premier League organization has announced the cancellation of the upcoming match between Persepolis and Kheybar Khorramabad, originally scheduled for September 13. The decision stems from the involvement of several players from both clubs in the national U-20 team camps.

Persepolis management and head coach Mehdi Tartar have expressed opposition to the cancellation. The club stated they did not request a postponement and are willing to play despite the absence of three players—Pouria Shahreabi, Pouria Latififar, and Danial Iri—who are currently with the national youth team, as well as an injury to Mehdi Zare. Persepolis aims to avoid a more congested schedule later in the season.

Amir Mehdi Alavi, spokesperson for the Football Federation, noted that while some clubs requested postponements due to player availability or upcoming Asian competitions, Persepolis has cooperated with the league and federation. While Kheybar has one player, Masoud Mohabi, in the national camp, Persepolis has three. The league's decision to postpone the fixture remains a point of contention for the Persepolis coaching staff.