The Iranian national futsal team’s training camp ahead of the AFC Asian Cup officially got underway today, as Vahid Shamsaei named a 20-man preliminary squad and took the first step toward defending the continental title. The team bound for Indonesia, however, must emerge from one of the toughest and most intense selection processes in recent years: choosing the final 14 players from a highly competitive and star-studded list.

The national team’s coaching staff, an international combination of Iranian, Spanish and Canadian experts, has spent months closely monitoring the Iranian futsal league widely regarded as one of the most vibrant and competitive futsal leagues in the world. Extensive travel to different cities, technical meetings with club coaches and detailed match analyses all culminated in the announcement of this 20-player squad.

Yet the reality both difficult and admirable is that at least 10 more players, with a level of quality close to those selected, also deserved a place in the camp and the chance to wear the national team jersey. This is where the real challenge begins: cutting six players from a group filled with talent, experience and ambition. A decision that is sensitive, complex and potentially career-defining.

In recent years, Shamsaei has shown notable courage by opening the doors of the national team to younger players, giving the new generation space for experimentation, growth and learning at the highest level.

Now, all eyes are on Iran’s National Football Center, where the final list of 14 players will soon be announced an announcement that may represent one of the most difficult decisions of Vahid Shamsaei’s coaching career.