Developing his skills as a centre-back, he transitioned from local youth teams to a career that spans domestic Iranian leagues and international competitive environments across Asia, consistently representing his country on the global stage.
Early Career and Domestic Development
Pouraliganji commenced his professional journey in 2010 with Naft Tehran. During his tenure there, he established himself as a defender, marking his debut professional goal in 2011 during a 4–1 victory against Paykan. His performance in the Iranian domestic circuit laid the foundation for his later international commitments and subsequent transfers to foreign clubs.
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Following a move to China on 25 February 2015, Pouraliganji signed a one-year contract with Tianjin Teda. He debuted for the club on 8 April 2015 against Henan Jianye and recorded his first goal for the team on 4 June 2015 during a 2–2 draw with Guangzhou Evergrande. He opted against renewing his contract at the conclusion of the season.
National Team Representation
His trajectory in the international arena began with the Iran U-17 squad at the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup. By 2012, he entered the senior setup under coach Ali Reza Mansourian. His profile grew after appearing in the 2014 Asian Games, leading to a call-up by Carlos Queiroz for the 2015 AFC Asian Cup. During that tournament, he netted a goal against Iraq in a quarter-final match at Canberra Stadium and was named in the AFC Best 11 of Round 2. He subsequently participated in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2019 AFC Asian Cup.
Return to Domestic Success
On 6 June 2022, Pouraliganji committed to a two-year deal with Persepolis, a side competing in the Persian Gulf Pro League. His time with the club proved successful, resulting in two league titles during the 2022–23 and 2023–24 seasons. Additionally, he secured a Hazfi Cup victory in 2022–23 and an Iranian Super Cup title in 2023.
Fast facts
- Born: 19 April 1992
- Place of birth: Pain Ganj Afruz, Babol County
- Primary position: Centre-back
- Professional debut: 2010
- 2015 AFC Asian Cup participation: Yes
- 2018 FIFA World Cup participation: Yes
- Persepolis titles: 2022-23 and 2023-24 Persian Gulf Pro League
- Current club: Pakhtakor
Questions readers ask
Which major international tournaments has Morteza Pouraliganji played in?
He has represented Iran at the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup, the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and the 2019 AFC Asian Cup.
What domestic titles has he won with Persepolis?
He has won the Persian Gulf Pro League twice, the Hazfi Cup once, and the Iranian Super Cup once.
