Djamel Benlamri joins Al-Shorta in Iraq after leaving MC Alger
Djamel Benlamri, the seasoned Algerian international, has officially joined Iraqi Premier League side Al-Shorta after concluding his tenure with MC Alger. The move marks a new chapter in Benlamri’s career as he ventures into a different league, adding Iraq to the list of countries where he has played professionally.
Al-Shorta confirmed Benlamri’s signing through a video announcement on their official social media channels, welcoming the 34-year-old defender to the team.
This latest transfer is likely to be one of the final moves in Benlamri’s career, which has spanned over a decade and seen him play for numerous clubs across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
While the specific terms of Benlamri’s contract with Al-Shorta have not been disclosed, his arrival adds significant experience and leadership to the Iraqi champions’ defense.
Al-Shorta becomes the eleventh club in Benlamri’s career, following stints with IR Hussein Dey, NA Hussein Dey, JS Kabylie, ES Setif, Al-Shabab (Saudi Arabia), Olympique Lyonnais, Qatar SC, Al-Khaleej (Saudi Arabia), Al-Wasl (United Arab Emirates), and most recently, MC Alger.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the move, Benlamri took to Instagram to share his gratitude and excitement about joining Al-Shorta.
“Thank God! I thank the supporters, the management, and the coach of the great Al-Shorta club for their trust. I promise to give the best of myself.
I feel like I am in my second country, in Iraq,” he wrote. He also extended his appreciation to his former club, MC Alger, saying, “I thank my former club, MC Alger, for the exceptional season. You will remain forever in my heart.”
Benlamri’s move to Al-Shorta comes as the club looks to bolster its squad ahead of the new season, aiming to defend its title as the Iraqi Premier League champions.
In addition to Benlamri, Al-Shorta has recently signed several other players, including Jordanian winger Mohammad Abu Zrayq and Iraqi players Akram Hachem, Rawan Amine, and Hassan Raed.
These additions come as the club prepares for a challenging season without their previous head coach, Moamen Soleiman, who departed just weeks before the start of the campaign.
Benlamri’s wealth of experience and proven track record in both domestic and international competitions make him a valuable asset for Al-Shorta.
His leadership on and off the field will be crucial as the club seeks to maintain its dominance in Iraqi football and compete on the continental stage.
This move is expected to add further depth to Al-Shorta’s defense, with Benlamri’s arrival signaling the club’s ambitions for continued success.
As Benlamri settles into his new environment, all eyes will be on how the experienced defender adapts to the challenges of the Iraqi Premier League and contributes to Al-Shorta’s quest for another championship title.
القيثارة تعزف بلحنٍ جزائري .. بلعمري يُكمل سمفونية البطل . 🇩🇿💚 pic.twitter.com/vTL4JnSXYv
— Al-Shorta SC نادي الشرطة (@AlShortaSC1932) August 14, 2024
