Mehdi Taremi, Inter Milan's striker, faces a major dilemma as he is stuck in Iran and unable to leave due to the suspension of international flights following the military escalation between Iran and Israel.
This puts his participation in the Club World Cup in serious doubt.
Inter Milan is preparing for their first match in the competition in 4 days, where they will face the Mexican club Monterrey, along with two matches in their group against Urawa Red Diamonds from Japan and River Plate from Argentina.
However, Taremi's absence may force the Romanian coach Cristian Chivu to adjust his tactical plans before the tournament begins.
Taremi, who joined for free from Porto in Portugal, was considered an important option in the team's attacking line as a substitute for Marcus Thuram or Lautaro Martinez, and has started in several matches since his transfer.
While the rest of Inter Milan players have arrived in Los Angeles to prepare for the matches, Taremi remains stuck in Tehran due to the suspension of international flights because of the escalating tensions and mutual airstrikes between Iran and Israel.
This crisis puts Inter in a difficult position just hours before the start of the Club World Cup, amid expectations that the player's absence may significantly affect the team's lineup and the coach's plans.