Adi Raïs Cobos Adrien Ouahab M'Bolhi, born in Paris in 1986, established a professional career as a goalkeeper across numerous international leagues. After early experiences in France, Scotland, Greece, and Japan, he gained prominence for his extended tenure in Bulgaria and his role representing the Algeria national football team during several FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Early Professional Development
M'Bolhi began his football education with RCF Paris before moving to Olympique de Marseille, where he failed to secure a league appearance. His search for consistent playing time led him to Heart of Midlothian in early 2006, though he left without debuting. Stints in Greece with Ethnikos Piraeus and Panetolikos followed, alongside a 22-match stretch with F.C. Ryūkyū in Japan during 2008.
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In May 2009, M'Bolhi signed with Slavia Sofia. He received recognition as the 2009 Best Goalkeeper of A PFG and was voted the fans' player of the season. His performance garnered interest from Manchester United and Newcastle United. He subsequently embarked on multiple loan spells with CSKA Sofia, navigating a complex period that included training with West Ham and a formal transfer to the Russian club Krylia Sovetov Samara.
Career in MLS and Global Leagues
M'Bolhi joined Major League Soccer club Philadelphia Union on 30 July 2014, wearing the number 92 shirt. His tenure proved difficult, and by 2015, he was relegated to the bench before moving to the Turkish club Antalyaspor. He later returned to France to sign with Stade Rennais in 2017. His career continued in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ettifaq and Al-Qadsiah, before he signed with CR Belouizdad in September 2023.
International Representation
Although he participated in youth setups for France, M'Bolhi committed his senior international career to Algeria. He made his debut on 28 May 2010 against the Republic of Ireland. He featured in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he kept a clean sheet against England, and was later selected for the 2013 and 2015 Africa Cup of Nations rosters.
Fast facts
- Born: 25 April 1986, Paris
- Citizenship: France, Algeria
- Position: Goalkeeper
- Professional debut: 2006
- Religion: Islam
- Major League Soccer club: Philadelphia Union
- International debut: 28 May 2010
- Language: French
Questions readers ask
Which major tournaments did Raïs M'Bolhi play in?
He competed in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, and the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
Did M'Bolhi play for any clubs in the United Kingdom?
Yes, he was recruited by Heart of Midlothian in 2006, though he did not make a first-team appearance for the club.
