Spanish football player escapes Iran via land

Amid the ongoing military conflict in Iran, Spanish-Moroccan player Munir El Haddadi found himself in an unusual situation. His flight to Tehran was canceled due to the closure of Iranian airspace following unprovoked attacks from the US and Israel.

El Haddadi, who plays for Esteghlal FC, was on a plane preparing to return to Spain when passengers were ordered to disembark immediately due to an emergency security situation. This forced him to quickly find an alternative way to leave amidst the chaos at the airport.

El Haddadi managed to secure a land route, embarking on a journey of approximately 16 hours towards the Turkish border. He arrived safely and is now awaiting the completion of procedures for his return to Spain, according to the newspaper Marca.

El Haddadi’s land travel was part of a broader effort by Spanish professionals in Iran to leave the country following recommendations from authorities in Madrid to do so as the conflict escalated.

This situation raises renewed questions about the potential impact on player contracts and their professional stability, particularly in leagues that rely on foreign investment and foreign professionals.

The war has also led to the postponement of sporting activities in some neighboring countries, in addition to the potential impact and absence of the Iranian national team from the 2026 World Cup due to its being held in the United States.

Featured image via the Canary