The 2009–10 season proved to be a major turning point. Ansarifard scored 13 league goals, establishing himself as one of the most exciting young forwards in Iranian football. His performances attracted attention from European clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, Celtic, and Steaua București, the latter submitting a €200,000 bid for a half-season loan.
Despite growing international interest, compulsory military service regulations complicated any potential transfer abroad. In May 2011, reports even linked him with Everton, but the move never materialized. Ultimately, Ansarifard renewed his contract with Saipa in July 2011, choosing stability over uncertainty.
That decision paid off handsomely. In the 2011–12 Iranian Pro League season, Ansarifard enjoyed a career-defining campaign, scoring 21 goals and providing 5 assists, finishing as the league’s top scorer. At just 22 years old, he was widely regarded as Iran’s most complete striker and a natural heir to Ali Daei.
Persepolis: Expectations, Achievements, and Conflict
Following his prolific season, Ansarifard became one of the most sought-after players in Iran. On 17 June 2012, he signed a three-year contract with Persepolis, one of the country’s most popular and politically significant clubs. He was handed the iconic number 9 shirt, symbolizing the club’s belief in him as their leading striker.
