Rais M’Bolhi Returns to Algerian League in Bid for AFCON 2025 and World Cup 2026

Algeria’s legendary goalkeeper Rais M’Bolhi's made surprise return to domestic football sealing move to ES Mostaganem in the Algerian top flight.

The 39 year old's determined to revive his career and fight for place in the Fennecs squad for the 2025 Africa cup of Nations & the 2026 FIFA World cup.

A Comeback Against the Odds

M’Bolhi out of competitive action since leaving CR Belouizdad in the summer of 2024, has been training privately with personal coach to maintain fitness.

Despite being sidelined for over year from the national team setup, he hopes his vast experience will help solve Algeria’s ongoing goalkeeping crisis.

Transfer Details

M’Bolhi’s move to ES Mostaganem was facilitated by former Algeria defender and current club captain Djamel Benlamr who confirmed the deal with photo alongside the veteran keeper during the team’s pre season camp. The official announcement's expected within hours.

From National Hero to Local Return

The former Antalyaspor & Al Ettifaq shot stopper boasts decorated career with 96 international cap, 40 clean sheet and 2 major title .. the 2019 AFCON & the 2021 FIFA Arab cup.

He also represented Algeria at two World cups 2010 & 2014, famously starring in the Round of 16 clash against Germany in Brazil.

Eyes on the National Team

Supporters believe his lack of recent match action won't hinder his impact noting that many of his finest performances for Algeria came after spells without club.

If he impresses in the domestic league, M’Bolhi could force his way back into coach Vladimir Petkovic’s plans ahead of AFCON qualifiers.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.