03.03.2026 16:22
Olympiacos and Mehdi Taremi's camp denied claims that the Iranian footballer would return to his country to join the war.
The claim that Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi, who plays for Olympiacos, will "return to his country and join the war" has created a stir. Both the club and the player have denied these reports.
"MY COUNTRY NEEDS ME" CLAIM
In a report by the Italian press outlet Tuttosport, it was alleged that Taremi communicated with the Olympiacos management, expressing his readiness to return to Iran and join the war. The report claimed that the player said, "My country needs me."
CLEAR STATEMENT FROM HIS AGENT
Taremi's representative Federico Pastorello stated that the news circulating does not reflect the truth. Pastorello said, "Recently, statements attributed to Mehdi Taremi that do not reflect the truth have been circulating. Taremi is continuing his training focused on his work and professional career in Athens. It is important to avoid misinterpretations during this sensitive period."
CLUB'S RESPONSE TO FAKE NEWS
Olympiacos Vice President Kostas Karapapas also rejected the claims, stating, "The first victims of war are always the facts. Do not believe in fake news." Karapapas emphasized that respect should be shown to athletes and people going through a difficult period. The 33-year-old striker has scored 16 goals and provided 5 assists in 31 matches for Olympiacos this season.