Persepolis F.C. caught in a cycle of aging and low-energy players
Persepolis suffered its sixth defeat of the current season—more than at any point at this stage over the past 10 years. This clearly reflects the team’s poor and crisis-ridden situation this season.
Osmar Loss, who took over to improve the team’s trajectory after Vahid Hashemian, showed acceptable results in the first half of the season. However, after the Qatar training camp and entering the second half, things turned disastrous. Osmar’s team has lost five of its seven matches in the second half and is going through one of the worst periods in its history.
The aging players of Persepolis have failed to solve the team’s problems. Their mistakes and lack of mobility appear to be the main reasons behind the current struggles. Opponents have exploited this by applying high pressing and pressure, taking advantage of Persepolis’ high average age and slow pace.
Osmar attempted to address the issue by introducing young players such as Amirhossein Mahmoudi and Farzin Moamelehgari, but these decisions have not worked. The Brazilian coach now seems tactically stuck. Poor defensive performances from players like Morteza Pouraliganji and Hossein Kanaani, along with weaknesses on both flanks, have distanced the team from its previously solid defensive structure.
In midfield, Omid Alishah no longer shows signs of being an influential and energetic player, often misplacing passes. Soroush Rafiei has also become one of the most criticized players due to frequent mistakes. Meanwhile, new signings such as Mohammadamin Kazemian, Reza Shekari, and Bifouma have failed to make an impact.
In attack, Igor Sergeev has been the only relatively successful signing, scoring three goals in six matches. However, his performance has coincided with the poor form of Ali Alipour, leaving the team struggling in all areas.
Given the individual performances and Osmar’s tactical deadlock, Persepolis is likely to face even tougher weeks ahead unless the coaching staff—who still have the club’s backing—find a serious solution. Otherwise, a major overhaul and rejuvenation of the squad at the end of the season seems inevitable./Tasnim
