Tehran, June 1 -- Sardar Azmoun has been left out of Iran's World Cup squad, amid reports of a perceived act of disloyalty to the country's government.
The forward, who plays for Shabab Al-Ahli in the United Arab Emirates, is reported to have upset his country's rulers.
In the midst of Iran's conflict with the US and Israel, Azmoun is believed to have angered his government by deciding in March to post a photo of himself with UAE ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Facilities in the UAE have been attacked by Iran during the conflict.
Azmoun, who has 57 goals in 91 appearances for his country, did not make the preliminary squad and Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei has again not picked him for a tournament for which his country's participation...