Saeid Ezzatollahi made history in the Iran Pro League on 26 October 2012 when he debuted for Malavan as a substitute at 16 years and 25 days old. This appearance marked him as the youngest player ever to compete in the league, cementing his status as a breakthrough talent in Iranian professional football.
Early Development and Domestic Success
Born in Bandar-e Anzali on 1 October 1996, Ezzatollahi followed his father Nader and uncle Ghader into the sport. He began with Shahrdari Bandar Anzali in 2008 before joining the Malavan youth academy in 2010. After his historic 2012 league debut, he earned the Iranian federation's young player of the year award for the 2012–13 season.
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In August 2014, Ezzatollahi signed a one-year contract with Atlético Madrid, competing in the División de Honor Juvenil and the UEFA Youth League. He later joined the Russian Premier League club Rostov in 2015. On 26 July 2016, he scored against R.S.C. Anderlecht in a UEFA Champions League qualifying match, becoming the youngest Iranian player to score in that competition.
Loan Transfers and International Play
His career involved multiple loan spells, including stints with Anzhi Makhachkala, FC Amkar Perm, Reading, and the Belgian club Eupen. He joined Vejle Boldklub in Denmark in 2020 before a loan to Al-Gharafa in 2022. Internationally, he became the youngest goalscorer for the Iran national team on 12 November 2015, netting a goal against Turkmenistan at 19 years and 42 days.
Fast facts
- Born: 1 October 1996, Bandar-e Anzali
- Professional debut: 26 October 2012
- First national team goal: 12 November 2015
- Atlético Madrid contract signed: 27 August 2014
- Danish Superliga club: Vejle Boldklub
- Current club: Shabab Al Ahli
Questions readers ask
What record did Ezzatollahi set in 2012?
He became the youngest player to appear in the Iran Pro League at 16 years and 25 days old.
Which European club was his first international team?
He signed with Atlético Madrid in 2014, where he played for their youth squad and Atlético Madrid C.
