Kenyan forward Masoud Juma has made a remarkable return to professional football after being unveiled as the newest signing for Esteghlal FC, a Persian Gulf Pro League club based in Tehran, Iran. The move comes as a significant milestone for Juma, who recently overcame an Achilles tendon injury that kept him out of action for nearly a year. His seven-month contract with Esteghlal is set to run until June 30, 2025.
Juma’s signing signals the next chapter in a career marked by determination and perseverance. After his injury in January 2024 during his time with Saudi Arabia’s Al Jabalain, Juma faced a prolonged recovery that also led to the conclusion of his contract with the Saudi First Division League side. His return to fitness was evident in October when he joined Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, in training sessions ahead of their AFCON qualifiers. Additionally, he was seen training with his former club, Kariobangi Sharks, signaling his readiness to re-enter competitive football.
Esteghlal FC, where Juma will now ply his trade, is Iran’s oldest and one of the most decorated clubs, having been founded in 1945. The team has amassed an impressive 38 titles across provincial, national, and continental competitions. Esteghlal plays its home games at the iconic Azadi Stadium, which has a capacity of 78,000. Currently sitting 10th in the league after 10 matches, the Tehran-based club also competes in the AFC Champions League, underscoring the high level of competition that awaits Juma.
The club is managed by the highly regarded South African coach Pitso Mosimane, who took over in October 2024. Mosimane is renowned for his tactical expertise and has previously enjoyed success with top clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, where he achieved continental glory. His presence at Esteghlal provides Juma with a unique opportunity to learn and grow under a coach with a wealth of experience in African and international football.
Juma’s journey to this point has been one of resilience and adaptability. Starting from humble beginnings in Isiolo, Kenya, he rose through the ranks at Kariobangi Sharks, earning recognition for his scoring prowess. His career has taken him across several countries, including stints in South Africa with Cape Town City, Algeria with JS Kabylie, the UAE with Dibba Al-Fujairah, Libya with Al-Nasr Benghazi, and Morocco with Difaa El Jadida. While his time at Cape Town City under coach Benni McCarthy was challenging, Juma has consistently shown a willingness to embrace new environments and overcome setbacks.
Now 28 years old, Juma’s signing with Esteghlal is not only a testament to his tenacity but also highlights the increasing presence of Kenyan talent in global football. Alongside Anthony Akumu, another Kenyan player in the Iranian league, Juma’s move to Esteghlal underscores the strides Kenyan footballers are making on the international stage.
While it remains uncertain whether Juma will feature in Esteghlal’s upcoming match against Mes Kerman, his signing adds depth to the club’s attacking options. Mosimane’s tactical approach and the club’s ambition make Esteghlal an ideal setting for Juma to rejuvenate his career and make a significant impact.
Esteghlal represents a prestigious platform for Juma to showcase his abilities, and the opportunity to work under a coach of Mosimane’s caliber adds further excitement to his move. For Juma, this is a chance to turn the page on a challenging year and contribute to a club with a rich history and a bright future.
As he dons the Esteghlal jersey, Juma will aim to repay the faith the club has shown in him by delivering strong performances on the pitch. His journey from the streets of Isiolo to one of Asia’s top football leagues is an inspiring story of resilience, talent, and ambition. With the support of his new team and coach, Juma stands poised to write an exciting new chapter in his career.
