HNK Rijeka signs Iran international Mohammad Mohebi on free transfer

Nogomania.com – RIJEKA, Rijeka have completed the signing of Iran international Mohammad Mohebi, adding an experienced and versatile attacker to Matjaž Kek’s squad on the final day of the transfer window across much of Europe.

The 27-year-old passed his medical before signing a two-year contract at Rujevica. Mohebi arrives as a free agent following the expiration of his contract with Russian side Rostov, meaning Rijeka did not have to pay a transfer fee.

The Iranian said the club’s ambitions played an important role in his decision to move to Croatia.

“Thank you for the warm welcome. I did some research into the history of the city and the club and saw that there are big ambitions here. I liked that and that’s why I came to Rijeka. I hope we can try to win trophies together,” Mohebi said.

Mohebi scored at the World Cup this summer
Standing 186cm tall, Mohebi operates primarily on the left wing but can also play on the opposite flank or through the middle. He arrives with considerable international experience as an established member of the Iran national team.

Mohebi featured three times for Iran at this summer’s World Cup and made his biggest impact against New Zealand, scoring with a header to secure a 2-2 draw.

“That experience was very important for me because I didn’t play at the World Cup in Qatar. We wanted to progress, but unfortunately we couldn’t do it. We ended up drawing three times and simply didn’t have any luck. Hopefully we can be more successful at the next World Cup and Asian Cup,” he said.

His recent World Cup experience gives Kek another player accustomed to football at the highest international level, while his ability to cover several attacking positions should offer Rijeka greater flexibility.

Salzburg also showed interest
Mohebi spent the previous three seasons with Rostov, recording 15 goals and 11 assists in 80 league appearances. Last season he made 28 appearances in the Russian league, scoring three goals and providing another three assists.

Before moving to Russia, he represented Iranian clubs Shahin Bushehr, Sepahan and Esteghlal. Mohebi had already experienced European football with Portuguese side Santa Clara, giving him experience of different leagues and playing styles before his arrival in Croatia.

Red Bull Salzburg were also reportedly interested in the Iranian during the summer, but Mohebi ultimately opted for Rijeka and the opportunity to work under Kek.

“I can play in several positions, on the wing, in attack and in midfield. The most important thing is to play and help the team. I’ve played in Portugal and Russia, which are good leagues, so I think I bring a lot of experience,” Mohebi said.

For Rijeka, securing a 27-year-old international with World Cup experience without paying a transfer fee represents an intriguing late-window addition. Kek now has another experienced attacking option as Rijeka prepare for the challenges ahead.