5 Reasons to Support Masoud Pezeshkian for President: Rasoul Khatibi’s Endorsement

International Career

Khatibi represented Iran at various levels, starting with the Olympic team during his tenure at Tractor Sazi and Pas. Despite his potential, the Olympic team did not achieve notable success. He earned his first senior cap on 15 February 1999 against Kuwait. His national team appearances were sporadic, but his excellent form in the 2005–06 season earned him a spot in the squad for the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Over his international career, he amassed 24 caps and scored five goals.

Coaching Career

Khatibi’s coaching career began in the summer of 2011 with Machine Sazi, where he served as player-manager. He later led Gostaresh Foolad to promotion to the Iran Pro League and renewed his contract for three more seasons in May 2013. Despite a promising start, he resigned in December 2013 after a series of poor results. On 31 May 2014, Khatibi took over as the manager of Tractor, signing a three-year contract. However, his tenure was short-lived, and he was dismissed on 8 February 2015 following a run of disappointing performances.