Rais Mbolhi’s turbulent spell at ES Mostaganem ends in disarray

Rais Mbolhi’s much-anticipated move to ES Mostaganem has taken a disastrous turn after the veteran goalkeeper abruptly stopped appearing for the team.

The 40-year-old, who joined the Ligue 1 Mobilis club this summer, was expected to bring stability and leadership to the squad.

The deal looked ideal for both sides — Mostaganem gained the experience of a 2019 AFCON-winning goalkeeper, while Mbolhi aimed to use the move to reignite his international career ahead of the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup in Qatar.

However, the partnership has since fallen apart. Mbolhi has not featured for over a month, leaving fans and club officials puzzled.

The official reason given for his absence was his daughter’s illness, which reportedly required him to stay by her side.

The club initially accepted this explanation, anticipating his return once family matters settled.

When Mbolhi finally reported back to training, his comeback lasted only one session before he vanished again without notice.

Since then, communication between the player and the club has broken down completely.

Head coach Nadir Leknaoui expressed his frustration during a press conference on Friday, admitting he had no updates about the goalkeeper’s situation.

“I have no information about Mbolhi or the reasons for his absence,” Leknaoui said. “We allowed him time off to resolve family issues.

He came back for one training session and then disappeared. I have no problem with him personally, but I don’t understand what pushed him to act this way.”

The coach’s comments reflect the growing confusion within the club, which now faces the likelihood of parting ways with one of its most high-profile signings.

Although the club has not yet made an official statement, all signs indicate that Mbolhi’s departure is imminent.

The incident mirrors his short and turbulent spell at CR Belouizdad in 2023. Following the Africa Cup of Nations, he disappeared from the team in a similar fashion, sparking speculation about his professionalism and motivation late in his career.

Supporters who once saw Mbolhi as a symbol of ambition for ES Mostaganem now view the situation with disappointment.

The club had counted on his presence to mentor younger players and strengthen its defensive organization.

Instead, his absence has disrupted the team’s plans and raised questions about his commitment.

At 40, Mbolhi’s career appears to be nearing an uncertain end.

The goalkeeper, who once delivered heroic performances for Algeria on the biggest stages, now finds himself embroiled in yet another episode of controversy.

His repeated disappearances suggest deeper personal or professional issues that continue to overshadow his final years in football.

As ES Mostaganem look to move forward, the club must address the void left by Mbolhi’s exit and restore focus within the squad. For Mbolhi, this latest chapter serves as another reminder of a career that once shone brightly but now fades amid inconsistency and unanswered questions.