Iran Professional League Tougher than Qatar Stars League: Soroush Rafiei
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranian iconic midfielder Soroush Rafiei says the games in Iran Professional League is tougher than Qatar Stars League.
Rafiei joined Al Khor in June from Iranian giant Persepolis.
He answered many questions regarding his transfer to QSL.
Asked him why did he choose Qatar in the first place?
“I couldn’t earn money as a professional footballer during my two years of mandatory military service. So I wanted to be paid well while plying my trade at the professional level to support my family,” Rafiei said.
“I had told my parents to stop working when I joined Foolad at the age of 21 and that I would be meeting the family expenses.
“I had many offers from some European countries, such as Belgium, Sweden, France and Russia. But after consulting with my friends here and weighing my options, I preferred Qatar,” Rafiei told QSL Online.
“For sure, the game is tougher in Iran in every sense. We had 18 teams in the first division a couple of years ago and now there’re 16.”
“I’m proud to be a part of the title-winning Persepolis side last season. Some games are played in far-off cities and you must reach the venue two or three days before a match. The traveling time is more and sometimes you’ve to take long-distance buses,” Rafiei stated.
“That way, it’s much more convenient in Qatar. You save the traveling time and can prepare on home conditions. Overall, the comfort level is high,” he added.
