Veteran Algeria keeper Raïs M’Bolhi hangs up his gloves at 39

Rais M Bolhi has brought down the curtain on his playing career at the age of 39, ending a journey that spanned four continents and nearly 100 international appearances for Algeria.

The goalkeeper steps away quietly, as he often carried himself throughout a career defined by resilience and longevity.

With 96 caps, appearances at two World Cups and major continental honours, M’Bolhi leaves behind a significant legacy in Algerian football.

Born in Paris, he built a reputation as a footballing nomad, representing 21 clubs across Europe, Asia and the United States before concluding his career in Algeria.

His final spell came with ES Mostaganem, where he made six appearances.

A brief stint at CR Belouizdad in 2022, during which he featured eight times, had also signalled the closing stages of his club career.

It was on the international stage, however, that M’Bolhi forged his reputation.

He emerged as Algeria’s first-choice goalkeeper on the eve of the 2010 World Cup, taking his place between the posts against England and holding onto the role for years to come.

At the 2010 FIFA World Cup, he introduced himself to a global audience.

Four years later, he was instrumental in Algeria’s run to the round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, a historic achievement for the national side.

His crowning moment arrived at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, where his assured performances helped Algeria secure their second continental title.

In 2021, he captained the A’ team to victory at the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup, further strengthening his standing in the national setup.

The later years proved more challenging, including a difficult campaign at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon and a return in 2023 in Ivory Coast in a more limited role.

While his club career was marked by frequent moves and short stays, stability came with the national team. For more than a decade, M’Bolhi remained a central figure for Algeria.

Now retired, he departs without fanfare but with his place secured among the most notable goalkeepers in the country’s history.