Carlos Queiroz: Sardar Azmoun quits Melli Team for a short period

“We are happy that we have a good relationship with Uzbekistan Football Association and they always have a positive response to our friendly match requests.”

“My lads will face a difficult team with a great experience and under the coaching of Hector Cuper in tomorrow’s game. Our squad is a mixture of experienced and young players as we already started preparation for the AFC Asian Cup 2019 and 2022 World Cup Asian Qualifiers.”

“For some reasons, Sardar Azmoun had to leave national team for a short period after the World Cup 2018, but he will rejoin our side later. He explained his situation and asked me an advice. Of course, I advised and allow him to leave the team and solve his problems before he will resume his career in the national team.”

“I would like to emphasize that World Cup preference does not help us in the upcoming Asian Cup 2019. So, we need to work hard and increase the players' experience and enthusiasm. Then, we can win the title. South Korea, Japan, and Uzbekistan are also seeking for a championship the Asian Cup in UAE. I do not find it necessary to disclose my personal opinion. But one thing I can say that Uzbekistan made a good decision as they brought Hector Cuper to the national team. I wish a good luck to Uzbekistan in all games, except against Iran.”