• 2024-02

Ali Karimi

Ali Karimi

  • Full name: Ali Karimi Pasghan
  • Born: November 8, 1978 (age 44)
  • Place of birth: Karaj, Iran
  • Nationality: Iranian
  • Occupation: Footballer
  • Position: Midfielder
  • Clubs:
    • Persepolis (1995–2001, 2002–2007, 2009–2010)
    • Al-Ahli (2001–2002)
    • Bayern Munich (2005–2007)
    • Metallurg Donetsk (2007–2008)
    • Steel Azin (2008–2009)
    • Tractor Sazi (2010–2011)
    • Shahin Bushehr (2011–2012)
    • Damash Gilan (2012–2013)
    • Sepahan (2013–2014)
    • Naft Tehran (2014–2015)
    • Tractor Sazi (2015–2016)
  • National team: Iran (1998–2012)

Ali Karimi (Persian: علی کریمی, pronounced [æliː kæriːmiː]; born 8 November 1978) is an Iranian former professional footballer who played as a midfielder. Widely regarded as one of the greatest Asian footballers of all time, he was nicknamed "The Magician" for his exceptional dribbling skills, creativity, and passing ability.

Karimi began his career at Persepolis, where he won two league titles and two Hazfi Cups. He then moved to Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates, before joining Bayern Munich in 2005. However, he struggled to adapt to life in Germany and returned to Persepolis after two years. He later had spells with Metallurg Donetsk, Steel Azin, Tractor Sazi, Shahin Bushehr, Damash Gilan, Sepahan, Naft Tehran, and Tractor Sazi again.

Karimi made his international debut for Iran in 1998 and went on to earn 127 caps, scoring 38 goals. He represented his country at the 2006 FIFA World Cup, the 2007 AFC Asian Cup, and the 2011 AFC Asian Cup. He was also named Asian Footballer of the Year in 2004.

Since retiring from football, Karimi has worked as a coach and manager. He has also been involved in politics and has been a vocal critic of the Iranian government.

Honors

  • Persepolis:
    • Iranian Pro League (2): 1996–97, 1998–99
    • Hazfi Cup (2): 1998–99, 2009–10
  • Bayern Munich:
    • Bundesliga (1): 2005–06
    • DFB-Pokal (1): 2005–06
    • DFL-Ligapokal (1): 2007
  • Iran:
    • AFC Asian Cup third place: 2004
  • Individual:
    • Asian Footballer of the Year: 2004
    • IFFHS Asian Men's Player of the Decade: 2001–2011