Utkir Yusupov rejected the offer from Iran’s “Esteghlal”

In recent days, Asian football has been actively discussing the situation surrounding the renowned Iranian club “Esteghlal” and the experienced goalkeeper of the Uzbekistan national team and “Foolad” — Utkir Yusupov. According to Championat.asia correspondent Tolibjon Qosimov, the management of “Esteghlal” approached Yusupov with an offer, but the seasoned goalkeeper refused the transfer and chose to remain at “Foolad”.

With this decision, the player surprised not only “Foolad” fans but also everyone following him in the Iran Super League. Meanwhile, “Esteghlal”’s head coach and scouting team quickly turned their attention to another candidate to resolve the goalkeeper issue. The main candidate currently under discussion is the Russian “Zenit” goalkeeper Yuri Lodygin.

Yusupov, for his part, is known for his consistent and effective play at “Foolad”. The 34-year-old goalkeeper played 29 matches for the Khuzestan club last season, conceding 28 goals and keeping 12 clean sheets. These results once again confirm that he remains one of the most stable and experienced goalkeepers in contemporary Asian football.

Let us remind you that two Uzbek footballers — Rustam Ashurmatov and Jaloliddin Masharipov — currently play for “Esteghlal”. Jaloliddin Masharipov has already secured his place in the team and earned the fans’ trust.

In short, Yusupov’s decision to stay at “Foolad” has triggered new transfer scenarios and possible changes in Iranian football. This situation is attracting a lot of attention from fans. What changes will take place on the goal line of “Esteghlal” and “Foolad” in the new season is of great interest to everyone. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!