The irreverent Ronaldo fan who told him to... switch sides

Ramin Rezaeian might not be a household name for European football fans, but the 36-year-old right-back is a true icon in Iran.

With 73 senior caps for the Asian national team and stints at Iran's three biggest clubs (Persepolis, Esteghlal, and Sepahan), the defender is considered one of the country's most eccentric players. Interestingly, he has an unusual story involving none other than Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he openly admires.

Before etching his name into Iranian football history at the 2022 World Cup, scoring Iran's second goal against Wales, he had a memorable encounter with Portugal's captain at the 2018 World Cup. This moment seems to hold even greater personal significance for him, as it's one of the posts he's pinned to his personal Instagram profile.

Recalling that match on a television program, he said: «I really like Ronaldo, and it was strange playing against him. I messed with him a bit... I even told him: If you're not enjoying it, switch sides and go play over there...». Rezaeian is an attacking right-back, which often leaves space behind him for opponents to exploit.

The veteran defender, currently under contract with Foolad, is once again featuring in a World Cup finals. He's part of head coach Amir Ghalenoei's final squad for the tournament currently underway.