Algeria’s Belhadji: Barca, Lazio Wanted Me

Qatar-based Algerian midfielder Nadir Belhadji reveals he was once being courted by Italian giants Lazio and Barcelona.

Now clocking 36, Belhadji began attracting the interest of clubs from within Europe’s top five leagues in the aftermath of the 2010 South Africa World Cup while still a Portsmouth player.

However, Barca ended up settling for Abidal who was the North African’s understudy during their time at French outfit Olympique Lyon.

That same year, he flew to Qatar for treatment where Al Sadd officials made him a lucrative offer which he accepted.

Reflecting on this move, he speaks of missing chance to show up for big European club with a tinge of regret but insists he’s contented with how his career has panned out.

“I play in another big club in Qatar, Al Sailiya. At the time, I could have played at a very high level and wear the jersey of very big European clubs. Being young, I think I rushed to make some decisions,” he said.

He continued: “In 2010, I was in the sights of several major European clubs. Lazio of Italy wanted me. I also had two or three offers from England. Barça representatives had also moved to Lyon to scout me. Finally, Barça decided to recruit Abidal.”

“I was playing in Portsmouth before the South African World Cup. I suffered an injury at the time and then I moved to Aspitar for treatment. It was an opportunity for me to discover Qatar. I even followed two or three championship games there. Al Sadda officials contacted me and I was very pleased with their proposal. So I decided to join Al Sadd after the World Cup.”
Now plying his trade with Al Saliiya, Nadir has featured in all eighteen games for the Qatari Stars League club.