Speaking to the Federation Daily after being called up to the national team camp, the experienced futsal star expressed his satisfaction at once again being part of Iran’s Asian Cup journey. “I am very happy to have the opportunity to take part in the Asian Cup again. This competition is never repetitive. Every edition comes with its own pressures, challenges and motivations, and returning to the pitch to fight for the trophy is exciting for all of us,” Ahmadabbasi said.

Commenting on his invitation to the camp and the intense internal competition, he added: “I’m pleased to have earned the coaching staff’s trust, but I fully understand how tough the competition is in camp. There are many high-quality players and everyone is fighting for a place on the final squad heading to Indonesia. This kind of healthy competition ultimately benefits the national team.”

Reflecting on the 2024 Asian Cup in Thailand, where he was named both Best Player and Top Scorer, Ahmadabbasi described the tournament as unforgettable but emphasized the collective nature of success. “I have very good memories from that tournament. However, even then I said these were not individual achievements. We were a team, and without teamwork, such titles have no meaning,” he noted.

Assessing the current squad, Ahmadabbasi said Iran possess a well-balanced and experienced team. “We have a complete squad. Players like Salar Aghapour, Moslem Oladghobad and myself have all won the Asian Futsal Player of the Year award. Each player brings valuable national and individual achievements. On the bench, Vahid Shamsaei needs no introduction, and figures such as Mohammad Taheri, Mr. Khourakchi, Shahab Safalmanesh and Kazem Sadeghi are major assets. Still, we must not be deceived by past success, because our rivals are also very well prepared.”

He concluded by sharing his personal motivation for the upcoming tournament. “This year feels special for me. My son, Sam, has been born and he is my special supporter back in Isfahan. Just as I dedicated my medal at the Islamic Solidarity Games to him, I would love to win this Asian title again for him and for the thousands of Iranian boys and girls who I hope will fall in love with futsal and follow this path.”