Uzbekistan national team midfielder Jaloliddin Masharipov returned to the pitch after a five-month break. The 32-year-old, playing for Esteghlal, came on as a substitute in Iran’s Round 10 match against Sepahan (2–1) in the 73rd minute, but was substituted again in the 90+6th minute.
The incident immediately sparked various assumptions on social media, with rumors that Masharipov had picked up another injury. However, the player himself put an end to the speculation.
According to him, there was no injury and everything is fine. The substitution was a tactical decision: after the team scored a second goal, Masharipov personally asked the coach to bring on a defender in his place to protect the lead.
“I came on. When I was substituted again, people thought I got injured. I didn’t — everything is fine. After we scored the second goal, I spoke to the coach and asked him to bring on a defender for me to secure the win,” the player explained.
Masharipov also noted that this was his first match after injury, thanked those who were worried, and wished everyone a lucky and prosperous new year.
In short, fans can stay calm: Masharipov is back and there is no injury. The most interesting part is ahead — once he regains full fitness, both Esteghlal and the national team will get an extra boost.
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