Baghdad Bounedjah joins Al-Shamal: Official announcement

The long-anticipated transfer of Algerian international striker Baghdad Bounedjah has finally been confirmed. Al-Shamal, a club in the Qatari Stars League, has officially announced Bounedjah’s signing, ending weeks of speculation.

Ibrahim Al Sada, the newly elected president of Al-Shamal, made the announcement during a general assembly.

“Baghdad Bounedjah is a great player, and we thank him for choosing our club.

He signed a two-year contract with an option for a third year,” Al Sada said on the Alkass channel.

Last weekend, Bounedjah successfully passed his medical examination with Al-Shamal, which finished eighth in the last edition of the Qatar Stars League.

His move from Al-Sadd to Al-Shamal was formalized shortly thereafter, dispelling rumors that had linked him with a transfer to Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia.

Despite Al-Shabab’s interest and a substantial €12 million offer from Al-Sadd during the winter, Bounedjah chose to continue his career in Qatar, a decision that surprised many.

Bounedjah, who has 71 caps and 30 goals for the Algerian national team, remains a prominent figure in Qatari football.

His move to Al-Shamal presents an opportunity to further cement his legacy in the Qatar Stars League.

At Al-Shamal, he will be joining forces with his young compatriot Omar Mohamed, 20, and Moroccan midfielder Younès Belhanda, both of whom joined the club last year.

Additionally, he will be playing alongside Senegalese goalkeeper Babacar Seck, who has been with the club for four years.

This transfer marks another chapter in Bounedjah’s prolific career in Qatar, where he has made a significant impact since joining Al-Sadd.

His decision to stay in Qatar and move to Al-Shamal instead of heading to Saudi Arabia underscores his commitment to the league and his desire to continue thriving in familiar territory.

Bounedjah’s arrival is expected to bolster Al-Shamal’s attack, bringing in his experience and goal-scoring prowess.

The club and its supporters are optimistic about the future, hoping that Bounedjah’s presence will lead to a successful season ahead.

As Baghdad Bounedjah prepares to don the Al-Shamal jersey, the football community will be watching closely to see how he continues to shape his career and contribute to his new team’s ambitions in the Qatar Stars League.