Ali Karimi  & Mehdi Mahdavikia the Perspolis and Team Melli players have announced their retirement from football in the aftermath of the bitter defeat of Perspolis in the Hazfi Cup final. On Sunday , Sepahan Esfahan won the Hazfi Cup after a penalty shootout depriving Perspolis from qualification to the AFC Asian Championship League next season.

Karimi who was injured for several weeks was making his first competitive appearance for Perspolis after the longish layoff. This match was crucial for himself as much as for his teammate Mehdi Mahdavikia who was making his final appearance before hanging his boots. While Mahdavikia’s retirement was known beforehand, Karimi’s announcement was an unexpected surprise.

Both players have a run in with the club management at different stages. In a veiled statement to the press on his retirement announcement , Karimi said that by leaving the club , he hopes that those people who take over are more dedicated to the club principals that himself. Karimi also emphasized that he is also not available for Team Melli selection.