Kenyan forward Masoud Juma has officially joined Persian Gulf Pro League club Esteghlal FC on a seven-month contract expiring on June 30, 2025. Esteghlal, Iran’s oldest professional football club, is currently managed by renowned South African coach Pitso Mosimane, who recently took the reins at the Tehran-based club.
This move represents a significant milestone for the 28-year-old striker, who has been a free agent for nearly five months. Juma was announced as a new signing on December 8 after recovering from an Achilles tendon injury that disrupted his stint at Saudi Arabia’s Al Jabalain. The injury, sustained in January, led to the termination of his one-year contract with the Saudi First Division League side.
Focused on regaining fitness, Juma trained with Kenya’s national team, Harambee Stars, in October before their AFCON qualifiers against Cameroon. He was also seen training with his former club, Kariobangi Sharks, indicating his readiness to return to competitive football.
Founded in 1945, Esteghlal FC is one of Iran’s most successful football clubs, boasting 38 titles across provincial, national, and continental competitions. The Tehran giants play their home matches at the iconic 78,000-seater Azadi Stadium and currently compete in both the league—where they sit 10th after 10 games—and the AFC Champions League.
Juma’s signing enhances Esteghlal’s attacking options under Mosimane, who joined the team on October 18, 2024, following a stint with Saudi Arabia’s Abha. Mosimane is a highly respected tactician, having previously managed clubs like Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, and leading them to continental success.
Juma’s career has been marked by resilience and adventure. Starting at Kariobangi Sharks, the Kenyan striker has played in multiple countries, including South Africa (Cape Town City), Algeria (JS Kabylie), the United Arab Emirates (Dibba Al-Fujairah), Libya (Al-Nasr Benghazi), and Morocco (Difaa El Jadida). Despite setbacks, he has continuously sought opportunities to make his mark globally.
As Esteghlal prepares to host Mes Kerman on Wednesday, it remains uncertain if Juma will be included in the squad, given potential match fitness concerns. Nonetheless, his signing is a clear testament to his determination to bounce back and contribute to his new club’s ambitions.
Masoud Juma joins Anthony Akumu as one of two Kenyans actively competing in the Iranian top flight, highlighting the growing presence of Kenyan talent in global football. With Esteghlal’s rich history and Mosimane’s tactical expertise, Juma has a prime opportunity to rejuvenate his career at the highest level.
