The Football Federation of Iran has announced that Esteghal FC gaolkeeper, Hossein Hosseini, will be facing a fine and suspension, after thw player was found hugging a female fan during the side's fixture in the Iranian league. The incident occured during the Esteghal Vs Aluminium Arak match on April 12, which the visitors (Esteghal) won comfortably with a 1-0 scoreline. The player will now face a fine of USD 4500 and a one-match suspension.
"I will pay the fine, for the sake of that that woman fan," said Hossein Hosseini, as reported by Iran Wire.
In justification of their decision, the apex institution for football in Iran stated the incident as "unprofessional and beyond the legal duties of a player" and that the player must mind the rules and regulations which are pre-set.
Former Iranian International Jumps In Support Of Hossein Hosseini
Hossein Hosseini's gestures have seen him draw support from former players and personnel over social media, as several players condemn the fine and suspension imposed on the player. As reported by Iran Wire, the following was said by the former Iranian international player:
"In what legal framework should one face a ban for a compassionate act towards a 13-14-year-old girl who is simply a football enthusiast? Why was there no repercussion when that man [former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad] hugged the mother of the late Venezuelan president [Hugo Chávez]? Why should a footballer be penalized for such a humane gesture?", said Mansour Rshidi, former goalkeeper, Iran.