Karimi’s move to Al-Ahli (UAE) marked a turning point. In the UAE Pro League, he matured tactically while retaining his flamboyant style. He became the centerpiece of the team, leading them to league and cup successes. His ability to shift tempo, break defensive lines, and create scoring opportunities made him one of the most feared midfielders in the region. Later, he continued to deliver strong performances with clubs like Al-Arabi (Qatar) and Al-Qadsia (Kuwait), cementing his reputation as a top-level playmaker in West Asia.
In 2005, Karimi achieved what few Asian players had done at the time—he signed with Bayern Munich, one of Europe’s football giants. This move generated excitement throughout Asia as fans saw one of their own step onto one of the biggest stages in world football. Despite suffering key injuries that limited his impact, Karimi showed flashes of brilliance in the Bundesliga. His technique and ball control impressed teammates, including German legends who admired his natural flair.
