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WILL MEHDI TAREMI PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Mehdi Taremi is one of those strikers who needs no introduction: tactical intelligence, goals, and an assisting ability that few number nines possess today. A key player for Porto for several seasons and now for Inter Milan, he has been crucial for the Iranian national team during recent World Cup cycles. But with age catching up with him—he'll be 34 in 2026—and a new generation pushing hard, the question is on the table: will we see Taremi at the next World Cup? In this article, we review his current situation, analyze the most relevant statistics, share interesting facts about his life, and seriously consider whether we'll see him representing the "Lions of Persia" in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Mehdi Taremi's Current Status
At 33, Taremi continues to perform at an extremely high level. After a stellar spell at FC Porto, where he became one of the most complete strikers in Europe, he made the leap to Inter Milan in 2024. Although he's not an undisputed starter, he contributes goals and assists every time he comes on, demonstrating that quality doesn't fade with time.
For the Iranian national team, Taremi is a living legend. He started in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, scoring key goals and serving as an attacking focal point. His ability to play with his back to goal, assist teammates, and finish with both feet makes him irreplaceable… at least for now.
Recent Stats
2024-25 Season (Inter): 23 matches, 7 goals, 4 assists
Iran National Team (until October 2025): 76 matches, 40 goals
Goals per game average for national team: 0.52
Direct involvement in goals in 2025: 1 every 122 minutes
Shots on target per game (club and national team): 3.1
His numbers remain solid, especially in high-pressure situations like the Champions League or knockout matches. Although he no longer plays 90 minutes at maximum intensity, his game reading and goal-scoring instinct remain intact.
Iran's World Cup Qualifying Opportunities
Iran is one of the most consistent teams in Asian football. They have qualified for five of the last seven World Cups (1998, 2006, 2014, 2018, and 2022) and have established themselves as a regional powerhouse. The outlook for 2026 is favorable: Asia will have eight direct qualification spots plus one playoff, significantly increasing their chances.
Under the guidance of Amir Ghalenoei, Iran has demonstrated defensive solidity, skillful ball control, and a potent attack featuring Sardar Azmoun, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, and Taremi himself. Although there are young players like Allahyar Sayyadmanesh who could be vying for a starting spot, Mehdi's experience and seniority remain key differentiators.
Key facts about Iran's journey
Current group: Iran, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Hong Kong
Position: 1st in the group with 10 points (as of October 2025)
Record: 3 wins, 1 draw, 0 losses
Goals for: 9 – Goals against: 2
Taremi was involved in 5 of those goals (3 goals and 2 assists)
Iran's qualification is very likely, and barring any injuries, Taremi will be among the 23 players called up. Although he might not play every minute, his contributions in the locker room, his strategy, and his experience in high-pressure matches will be crucial.
Furthermore, his relationship with his teammates is excellent. Azmoun and Taremi understand each other perfectly, and that duo has already performed well in previous tournaments. If Iran qualifies for the World Cup, Mehdi has a guaranteed spot.
Interesting Facts and the Human Side of Taremi
Beyond the opposing penalty area, Mehdi Taremi has a story of hard work and overcoming adversity. He was born in Bushehr, a port city in southern Iran, and began his career in local leagues before being discovered by Persepolis, one of the country's biggest clubs. From there, he moved to the Qatari league, then to Portuguese football with Rio Ave, and finally to Porto, where he became a star.
Taremi is also passionate about film and has stated in interviews that he would have liked to be an actor if he weren't a footballer.
In addition, he speaks fluent English and has been an ambassador for social campaigns both inside and outside of Iran.
Things you may not know
He was the first Iranian to score a Champions League goal for Porto
In 2021, he was chosen as the AFC's Asian Player of the Year
He has a degree in Physical Education
He guest-starred in an Iranian TV series in 2023
He is a fan of Mediterranean food and Spanish music
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