Holding the all-time appearance record for the Iranian national team with 149 caps, Javad Nekounam established himself as a central figure in Iranian football. Throughout a playing career that spanned from 1998 to 2016, the Ray-born midfielder competed across diverse leagues in Asia and Europe, ultimately transitioning into a managerial role following his retirement from international competition.
Early Career and Domestic Success
Nekounam began his professional journey with Pas Tehran F.C., where he spent several years competing in the AFC Champions League. After gaining recognition domestically, he moved to the United Arab Emirates in 2005, signing a contract with Al-Wahda F.C. valued at US$1 million. Following a brief stint with Al Sharjah SC in early 2006, he attracted attention from European clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and 1.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Tenure at CA Osasuna
In 2006, Nekounam joined CA Osasuna on a two-year contract. He became a consistent presence in the squad, despite a significant setback on 14 August 2007 when he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture in his right knee. After successful surgery in Germany and an eight-month recovery period, he returned to the field. He remained with the club until 2012, serving as the team's highest-paid player, before ultimately returning to Iran.
International Milestones
Nekounam received his first call-up to the Iran national team in 2000. He appeared in two FIFA World Cups, in 2006 and 2014, and participated in four AFC Asian Cups. In March 2015, he surpassed Ali Daei to become Iran’s most capped player. By the time he retired from international play, he had scored 39 goals for his country and subsequently joined Carlos Queiroz’s coaching staff.
Managerial Transition
Moving into coaching, Nekounam took charge of F.C. Nassaji Mazandaran midway through the 2017–18 season. He guided the club to promotion to the Persian Gulf Pro League, marking an end to their 24-year absence from the top flight. His later coaching roles included leading Foolad to victories in the 2020–21 Hazfi Cup and the 2021 Iranian Super Cup, as well as managing Esteghlal to a runner-up finish in the 2023–24 Iran Pro League.
Fast facts
- Born: 7 September 1980, Ray, Iran
- Primary Position: Midfielder
- International Caps: 149
- International Goals: 39
- Esteghlal Record Fee: US$1,500,000
- Professional Retirement: 2016
- Nassaji Mazandaran Promotion: 2017–18 season
Questions readers ask
How many times did Javad Nekounam play for Iran?
He earned 149 caps for the Iranian national team.
Which major trophies did he win as a manager?
He won the 2020–21 Hazfi Cup and the 2021 Iranian Super Cup while managing Foolad.
