His goals weren’t just numbers—they carried the hopes of millions and made him a symbol of national pride. In his first season as a coach, he shocked everyone by winning the Persian Gulf Pro League title. Though he won matches, inconsistent results led to his dismissal before the 2010 World Cup. Later stints at Persepolis, Rah Ahan, Saba Qom, Naft Tehran, and Saipa showed his tactical knowledge, but also highlighted the challenges of working in turbulent football scene, where politics and management often clash with coaching.
Though Cristiano Ronaldo eventually broke his record, Daei’s legacy as a pioneer for Asian players remains unmatched. Fans in Iran call him a national hero, not just for his goals, but for his humility, discipline, and example as a role model. Ali Daei’s journey from the streets of Ardabil to the world’s biggest football stages is the story of ambition, resilience, and pride. Whether scoring goals for Team Melli, lifting a Bundesliga trophy with Bayern Munich, or mentoring the next generation as a coach, he has left an indelible mark on world football.
