Australia Is Daniel Arzani’s First Preference: Report
TEHRAN (Tasnim) - Daniel Arzani has revealed he would turn his back on Australia if Iran gave him the chance to play at this year's FIFA World Cup in Russia.
The 19-year-old capped off an incredible debut A-League season for City by taking home the NAB Young Footballer of the Year award at last night's Dolan Warren Awards.
While the A-League’s most evasive player this season said it would be a ‘dream come true’ to represent Australia, he refused to close the door on playing for Iran in Russia, according to SBS.
“I think the Socceroos definitely for me,” Arzani said when asked what his first preference is.
“But the thing is there is a World Cup coming up and I wouldn’t be one to pass up the chance to play in a World Cup, it’s an amazing experience."
Socceroos coach Bert van Marwijk will name his preliminary 35-man FIFA World Cup squad in the coming weeks and Iran could swoop if Arzani is left out.
It’s clear the teen sensation is desperate to play for Australia.
“It would mean the world,” Arzani said.
“Obviously from being very young, watching the Socceroos play, I’ve always dreamt of playing for them and putting on the green and gold for the first team.”
“To think that one day hopefully soon I could be putting on that jersey is just something special.”
“Just growing up watching players like Harry Kewell and Tim Cahill that I now know personally and play, it’s just crazy," Arzani said.
