Algerian striker Islam Slimani explains surprise move to CFR Cluj

Islam Slimani has defended his unexpected decision to join Romanian side CFR Cluj, insisting that the move offers him the competitive challenge he was searching for at this stage of his career.

At 37, many assumed the Algeria international would opt for a lucrative spell in the Gulf to round off his career.

Instead, the all-time top scorer for the Fennecs, with 46 goals in 102 appearances, has chosen a club better known for its European ambitions than financial rewards.

Slimani, who was a free agent after leaving CR Belouizdad following a loan spell at Westerlo, explained that his motivation was to embrace one last adventure that could push him both on and off the pitch.

“It’s day by day,” he said. “I came here to help the team progress. With my experience, I can give a lot to the young players in Cluj and show them the path to becoming important players.”

The forward revealed that Cluj’s project immediately appealed to him, stressing that he turned down more lucrative proposals in order to remain in a competitive environment. “I liked the infrastructure, the club, the stadium. The city too – there’s a lot to do here. That made the decision easier,” Slimani explained.

CFR Cluj, a historic name in Romanian football with regular appearances in European competitions, were quick to present Slimani with a project that aligned with his vision.

The club’s president praised the Algerian’s “international experience and attacking flair,” highlighting the value of a striker who has amassed 124 career goals across stints in Portugal, France, Belgium, Turkey, Algeria and now Romania.

Cluj’s ambitions this season remain high despite their early exit from the Conference League play-offs. The club is targeting a podium finish in the domestic league and will rely heavily on Slimani’s experience to achieve that aim.

His arrival has generated optimism that he can provide both goals and leadership to a side seeking renewed momentum.

Slimani himself is determined to prove that he can still make a difference despite his age. “My goal is to score as many goals as possible and help the club achieve its objectives,” he stated. “I would tell the fans to stay with us because the league is long. It’s up to us to make them happy.”

Beyond club football, Slimani remains quietly hopeful of reviving his international career. He has not featured for Algeria since the appointment of coach Vladimir Petković, but he has never announced his retirement.

With competition for attacking roles intensifying, the veteran forward views his spell at Cluj as an opportunity to stay sharp in case another call-up arrives.

The dream of appearing at the 2026 World Cup remains a lingering motivation. For now, however, Slimani is focused on delivering in Romania, proving to his critics that his hunger for goals and success is undiminished.

His decision to reject easy options in favour of a demanding project is a testament to the same drive that has defined his career – the relentless pursuit of scoring goals and making an impact. In Cluj, Slimani begins yet another chapter, hoping to add fresh achievements to a career already etched into Algerian football history.