Ali Ansarian (; 5 July 1977 – 3 February 2021) was an Iranian professional footballer, actor and presenter. His uncle, Hossein, is a famous Shia cleric. Club career After playing for Persepolis F.C. for several seasons, in July 2006 Ansarian joined the club's fierce rival, Esteghlal F.C. On 22 July 2007, he signed with Azadegan League Steel Azin F.C. for reportedly $150,000. After one season playing in a lower league, he returned to Iran Pro League. International career Ansarian had a few short call-ups to the national team. He made his debut for Iran in October 1998 against Kuwait. Death After struggling almost two weeks with COVID-19 and suffering from medical side effects and organ failures, Ansarian died at Farhikhtegan Hospital in Tehran on 3 February 2021, at age 43. Career statistics Honours Persepolis Iranian Football League (3): 1998–99, 1999–2000, 2001–02 Hazfi Cup (1): 1998–99 Shahin Bushehr Hazfi Cup: runner-up 2012 Filmography Film Television Home-video series TV programs Zabiwaka (2016) AIO Internet TV Varzeshgah (2017) Channel Five Mench Competition (2009) Channel Five Panorama Internet Program (2020) Award V.i.Z. Film Fest (2021): Best Actor, win, for his role in Koolbarf References External links Instagram page 1977 births 2021 deaths Iranian footballers Persian Gulf Pro League players Azadegan League players Esteghlal F.C. players Gostaresh Foulad F.C. players Persepolis F.C. players Shahin Bushehr F.C. players Shahrdari Tabriz players Esteghlal Ahvaz players Iran international footballers Association football defenders Iranian radio and television presenters Deaths from the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran 21st-century Iranian male actors