Sardar Azmoun, the Iranian striker for UAE side Shabab Al Ahli, said the confidence placed in him by Brazilian head coach André Jardine, the support of his teammates and a strong mentality were the key factors in overcoming injuries and difficult circumstances. He said these factors helped him return to peak form and shine again for Shabab Al Ahli in recent matches.

Speaking to Emarat Al Youm, Azmoun said his return to form was the result of the positive atmosphere within the team and the close relationship between the players and coaching staff. He stressed that a coach’s confidence in his players is one of the most important factors in helping them deliver their best performances on the pitch.

“It is very important to me that the head coach is satisfied with my performance,” the Shabab Al Ahli striker said. “When a player feels that the coach trusts him and is pleased with his performance, he can produce his best football. There is a very good relationship between the players and coaching staff, and everyone supports one another. That has helped us become a united team.”

Highlighting the role of mutual support between the players and coaching staff in the team’s success, he added: “The head coach and coaching staff support the players, and we support them in return. This means everyone works towards the same goal. I am happy that I can help the team, and my teammates always help me perform at my best on the pitch.”

Azmoun played a decisive role in Shabab Al Ahli’s 2-0 victory over Esteghlal Tehran on Tuesday, October 27, in Matchday 3 of the AFC Champions League Elite.

The Iranian striker set up Matheus Lima for his team’s opening goal in the 69th minute before providing another assist for Juan Bezerra in the 84th minute. The victory was Shabab Al Ahli’s third consecutive win in the Asian competition, taking them to 9 points from three matches and extending their strong run of results.

A strong mentality: The key to overcoming injuries

Reflecting on the difficult periods he endured because of injuries, Azmoun said mental readiness and resilience play an important role in helping players return to their best.

“Football is full of challenges, and it is natural for players to suffer injuries or go through difficult periods,” he said. “What matters is that a player is smart and has a strong mentality to deal with such situations. I believe I have a good mindset, and that helps me overcome difficulties and return in better condition.”

The Shabab Al Ahli striker also stressed that his individual success cannot be separated from the collective efforts of the team, adding that the support of his teammates gives him greater motivation to improve and perform better.

Azmoun said the team’s success and securing victories always remain his top priorities.

Shabab Al Ahli face major test against Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal

Azmoun also discussed Shabab Al Ahli’s upcoming AFC Champions League Elite match against Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, saying his teammates are fully aware of the strength of their opponents.

He described Al Hilal as one of Asia’s best teams and said Shabab Al Ahli would approach the match with the same competitive spirit and confidence shown in recent fixtures.

Azmoun said facing Al Hilal would be a difficult test against a team with exceptional resources and quality. However, Shabab Al Ahli are also confident in their own abilities and will seek to deliver a strong performance and continue their positive run in Asian competition.

The Iranian striker reiterated that trust between the players and coaching staff, mutual support within the team and a strong mentality are among the most important factors behind individual and collective success in football.