Carlos Queiroz fires back at Jurgen Klinsmann over his criticism of Iran’s playing style

Carlos Queiroz has issued a stinging response to Jurgen Klinsmann after his criticism of Iran’s style of play against Wales. 

The Asian giants made a disappointing start to their World Cup campaign as they suffered a 6-2 thrashing against England in their opening game. 

However, Team Melli bounced back strongly against Wales to register an impressive 2-0 victory. 

Klinsmann, who was working as a pundit for the BBC, suggested after the game that one of the factors for Iran’s success is their ability to ‘work the referee.’ 

The former Germany manager also had issues with their physical approach to the game and claimed that was part of their culture. 

Queiroz was infuriated by the remarks and has now fired back at the German. 

The Portuguese boss called his comments ‘a disgrace to football’ and demanded he resign from his position as a member of FIFA’s Qatar 2022 Technical Study Group. 

He posted on Twitter: “No matter how much I can respect what you did inside the pitch, those remarks about Iran Culture, Iran National Team and my Players are a disgrace to football.

“Nobody can hurt our integrity if it is not at our level, of course. Even saying so, we would like to invite you as our guest, to come to our national team camp, socialise with Iran players and learn from them about the country, the people of Iran, the poets and art, the algebra, all the millennial Persian culture. And also listen from our players how much they love and respect football.”

“As [an] American/German, we understand you’re no supporter. No problem. And despite your outrageous remarks on BBC trying to undermine our efforts, sacrifices and skills, we promise you that we will not produce any judgments regarding your culture, roots and background and that you will always be welcome to our family.”

Queiroz has done an incredible job at Iran after first taking over in 2011, with the Portuguese guiding them to the 2014 and 2018 World Cup finals. 

Team Melli were impressive in Russia and came very close to securing qualification to the knockout stage. 

The 69-year-old is held in the highest esteem after his fantastic work. 

His side have an excellent opportunity to make it to the round of 16 in Qatar following their victory over Wales. 

Iran will go through if they beat the United States in their final group game. If they secure a draw, they will need to hope England draw or beat Rob Page’s side.