A former Esteghlal FC player has urged the club to take caution when considering a potential extension on Pitso Mosiame's deal, claiming there are still concerns that need to be addressed.
The Crown's recent resurgence in the Persian Gulf Pro League has sparked debate about whether head coach Mosimane deserves a long-term contract extension.
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The team has gone unbeaten in their last seven matches across all competitions, including two wins and two draws in their most recent five outings. This run has lifted the Tehran-based side to ninth place on the table with 16 points from 13 games.
While the former Al Ahly manager's impact on Esteghlal's defensive organisation since taking charge has received some praise, club legend Shahin Kheiri has warned against rushing into a decision regarding the South African coach's future.
Speaking to Mehr News Agency, Kheiri offered a measured assessment of Mosimane's tenure thus far.
"Esteghlal has shown slightly better technical performance, but in the last game against Aluminium Arak, we didn't see a convincing display," he said per Saheb Khabar.
"Perhaps the most noticeable difference is that they're no longer losing matches, but beyond that, nothing special has happened. It seems the team has simply received a temporary shock."
Kheiri suggested that the departure of former coach Javad Nekounam and Mosimane's arrival provided the team with an initial boost, but he questioned whether substantial progress had been made.
"There are still many issues to address," he continued. "Defensive organisation remains a concern, and the attacking phase has not improved significantly. In weeks where rivals have dropped points, Esteghlal should be capitalising, but they've failed to do so."
"Mosimane is not a bad coach, but we need to see more from him," the former player added.
"For now, it's too early to commit to a long-term deal. The team's performance should be carefully evaluated at the halfway mark of the season before making any decisions."
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