I don't think it has anything to do with us qualifying for the WC. Its Queiroz, he has actually managed to change the mindset of most our players who wish to actually break into TM to seek opportunities in Europe rather then Persian Gulf Leagues.
I mean, look at Noorafkan/Alipour etc just recent examples. 6-7 years ago these players would have already transferred to UAE/Qatar with their performances. Instead, both of them are pushing for moves to Europe. Noorafkan got interest from Belgium & Alipour from Russia/Switzerland.
If this trend continues and our players currently in Europe continue to shine and do well, i don't think it will be long until we have 20-30 European based players. Playing in the World Cup will help this cause also.
The target should now be to have as many of the currently younger established players such as Alireza, Milad, Kaveh, Azmoun, Ezatolahi, Saman etc joining either top 4 league clubs or CL participating clubs and keep moving up.