This study aimed to develop a model of factors influencing Iranian football players’ transfer to foreign leagues. A sequential exploratory mixed-methods design was used. In the qualitative phase, purposive interviews were conducted with 15 experts, including football executives, agents, prominent and former players, sport management academics, and sport sociologists. The data were analyzed thematically. A 50-item questionnaire was then developed from the qualitative findings, assessed for face and content validity, and administered to 214 participants from the target population. The quantitative data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling in SmartPLS 3. Three main categories emerged: personal success factors (personality-related attributes, achievements and career history, influence, and personal media), skill-related success factors (technical skills, tactical skills, and physical condition), and external success factors (professional management and socialization). The path coefficients for all three dimensions were positive and statistically significant. The findings indicate that the simultaneous development of individual and sport-specific capabilities, professional career management, and cultural and communication readiness may facilitate Iranian players’ international transfers.