Tehran, Iran – Kenyan forward Masoud Juma faces tough times at Esteghlal FC in the Persian Gulf Pro League. Since ing on a free transfer in December 2024, the 29-year-old has scored only one goal. He has played seven matches across all competitions this season.
Juma’s transfer to Esteghlal was expected to boost his career. Yet, injuries have significantly limited his playing time. His latest match was a 2-2 draw against Havadar SC. This game showed his struggle to regain form. Teammate Ryan Ogam, a midfielder, ed Esteghlal alongside Juma. Ogam’s consistent play contrasts with Juma’s fitness issues, highlighting the Kenyan’s difficulties. In the league, Juma has played three matches. He has 270 minutes and one goal, according to statistics. The seven total appearances likely include the Hazfi Cup and the AFC Champions League Elite games.
Moreover, Esteghlal competes in three major tournaments this season: the league, Hazfi Cup, and the AFC Champions League Elite. The team’s 10th-place league standing reflects broader struggles. They have scored 24 goals but conceded 29. Juma’s limited impact has raised concerns about his role.
Despite club woes, Masoud Juma remains key for Harambee Stars. He played in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His substitute role in a 3-3 draw against The Gambia shows his value. Fans and coaches expect much from him.
Juma’s career has seen many moves. In 2017, he led the Kenyan Premier League with 17 goals for Kariobangi Sharks. This success took him to Cape Town, South Africa. He also played in Libya, Algeria, Morocco, and Saudi Arabia. However, stability has been hard to find. In Iran, fitness issues hurt his momentum. Doubts linger about his readiness for club or country.
Esteghlal faces matches in the league, Hazfi Cup, and the AFC Champions League Elite. Juma’s role is uncertain. Yet, his past suggests he can recover. For example, he scored eight minutes after coming off the bench in the 2015 FKF President’s Cup final for Bandari. Kenyan fans hope Juma regains his form. His journey in Iran shows football’s unpredictable nature. Resilience is key for the striker.