Ali Karimi is widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted footballers in the history of Asian football. Born on 8 November 1978 in Karaj, Karimi rose from local fields to become an international star admired for his extraordinary dribbling, flair, and creativity on the ball. Karimi began his professional career with Fath Tehran before moving to Persepolis, where his explosive style quickly made him a fan favorite. His combination of agility, acceleration, and close ball control earned him the nickname “The Asian Maradona.” In 2001, Karimi’s international profile skyrocketed when he joined Al-Ahli in the UAE Pro League, becoming one of the league’s most exciting and influential players.
But perhaps the peak of his club career came in 2005, when he signed with Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s top clubs. Despite injuries limiting his time in Germany, his technical quality left an impression on both teammates and fans. Karimi was equally impactful on the international stage. He earned over 120 caps for the national team, playing key roles in tournaments such as the AFC Asian Cup and FIFA World Cup qualification campaigns. In 2004, his outstanding performances won him the prestigious AFC Player of the Year award—solidifying his place among Asia’s elite.
