Mehdi Taremi

Mehdi Taremi (born 18 July 1992 in Bushehr, Iran) is an Iranian professional footballer who plays as a striker and is regarded as one of the most complete and technical forwards of his generation. He is the third and youngest child of his family; his father Alishah Taremi was an amateur footballer who played at regional level.

Early Career

He developed his footballing skills in Bushehr and rose through the Iranian football pyramid at clubs including Shahr Khodro and Persepolis — where he became a fan favorite and won multiple Iranian domestic titles. His performances in Iran attracted attention from European clubs.

Porto and International Breakthrough

He signed for FC Porto in Portugal in 2020, quickly establishing himself as one of the finest strikers in European football. At Porto he became beloved by the Dragões faithful for his consistency, work ethic, and spectacular goals. His most iconic moment came in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Chelsea in April 2021, when he scored a stunning overhead bicycle kick that was widely celebrated as one of the most beautiful Champions League goals in recent memory. He helped Porto win multiple Primeira Liga titles and was named the best foreign player in Portuguese football.

Inter Milan

He joined Inter Milan on a free transfer in the summer of 2024, becoming one of the most high-profile Iranian players ever to join a major European club. He has continued to perform at the highest level for the Nerazzurri.

International Career

A key figure for the Iranian national team for over a decade, he has participated in multiple FIFA World Cups including 2018 and 2022. At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar he was one of Iran's most important players.

Faith

A practicing Twelver Shia Muslim, Taremi is well known for performing the sujud (prostration) after scoring goals, making his faith visible at the highest levels of European football. He has spoken about the importance of God in his life and how prayer guides his conduct on and off the pitch.