TEHRAN – Zinedine Zidane, Jose Mourinho and Jurgen Klinsmann have been shortlisted to replace Carlos Queiroz at the helm, spokesman and head of public relations and information of the Iran’s Ministry of Sports and Youth, Maziar Nazemi, said.

Iran failed to book a place at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup final after being defeated by Japan 3-0 on Monday at the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain.

Iran’s dream of making it to their first AFC Asian Cup final after 43 years was over after the heavy loss.

Shortly after, Carlos Queiroz announced his resignation as head coach of Iran national football team.

The 65-year-old coach decided to call time on his eight-year stint with the Iranians at the news conference in Al Ain.

Now, Nazemi, on behalf of the ministry, has claimed in an Instagram post they are going to hire a big name.

Zidane, Mourinho and Klinsmann have been nominated for Iran hot seat in this regard, according to him.

The post has been shared widely on social media but big question is “why does the Iranian football federations remain silent on this issue?” because the issue has nothing to do with the sports ministry.

The football federation is responsible for signing a new coach and there has been no confirmation that the Portuguese coach has stepped down.

The Iran federation has just thanked Queiroz for his services and commitment in Team Melli.

FIFA has a zero tolerance policy over government interference with the nation's soccer association.