Mohannad Ali Rejects Erbil Offer, Prefers Al-Shorta: The Truth Revealed

Iraqi national team striker Mohanad Ali "Mimi" has settled his future during the current summer transfer window, opting to return to Al-Shorta after considering several offers he received following his participation in the 2026 World Cup.

The 26-year-old striker's contract with Dibba Al-Fujairah expired last June, making him a free agent.

Mimi was in no rush to make a decision, as he preferred to assess the offers presented to him and choose the project that best aligns with his ambitions for the next phase.

According to close sources, the player has received intensive calls from the management of Erbil FC in recent weeks, which presented a substantial financial offer nearing the value of the highest local transfers made this summer for names like Ibrahim Bayesh and Akam Hashim.

Mohannad Ali considered the offer and consulted with those close to him about the idea of spending a season in the local league before returning to play abroad. However, he ultimately decided to reject the offer.

Sources indicate that Mohannad Ali prefers to sign with Al-Shorta for several reasons. The first is his special relationship with the club's management, and the second is his confidence in the team's ambitious project to compete both domestically and internationally.

Al-Qithara's participation in the AFC Champions League was an important factor in his decision, as he sees it as an opportunity to showcase himself on a continental level.

The presence of Tunisian coach Sami Trabelsi at the helm of the technical staff has been crucial in the decision-making process. The player shares a respectful relationship with the coach that dates back to their time together at Al-Sailiya in the Qatari league during the 2020-2021 season, and "Mimi" felt very comfortable working with him again.

Mohannad Ali has an impressive record with the "Lions of Mesopotamia" since joining in 2017. He has played 71 international matches, scoring 26 goals.

His current market value stands at €1.2 million, placing him among the most expensive Iraqi players at the moment.

Mohannad Ali's return to Al-Shorta represents a return "home" from where he launched his career and introduced himself to Iraqi and Arab football. The player and the coaching staff hope he will provide a strong attacking addition to the team in their journey through the Iraqi Premier League and the Asian championship.