Zayyan takes next career step with Rimal Al Sahra in UAE

Bangladesh national team left-back Zayyan Ahmed has taken a significant step forward in his football journey by completing a move to UAE Third Division League side Rimal Al Sahra SC, a club steadily building its identity within the country’s professional football system.

The transfer was confirmed through Zayyan’s official Facebook page, where the young defender shared his excitement about the new challenge ahead.

“Excited to finally share that I have joined the family at Rimal Al Sahra SC. New colors, new challenges, same hunger,” he wrote.

Born and raised in the United States, Zayyan’s career has been shaped by exposure to different footballing environments.

His recent training stint in Canada, where he participated in several high-intensity sessions, proved to be an important phase in his development.

Following those sessions, his playing profile and match footage were shared with a number of clubs.

After carefully assessing his options and the pathway best suited for his growth, the UAE emerged as the most practical and promising destination for the next phase of his career.

A major factor behind the decision was the strong football structure and experienced management at Rimal Al Sahra.

The club’s coaching set-up includes former Newcastle United defender Steven Taylor, supported by experienced professionals such as Richard Pinikett.

The squad also features several young players with backgrounds in European youth leagues, creating a competitive environment ideal for development.

Regular match opportunities, a clearly defined sporting vision, the advantage of international window breaks, and convenient travel facilities were among the key elements that aligned with Zayyan’s professional goals.

Founded in 2025, Rimal Al Sahra have enjoyed an impressive rise in a short period of time.

The club currently sit second in the UAE Third Division points table, and maintaining that position would secure promotion to the Second Division next season.

Zayyan made his official debut for the club on Tuesday in the UAE FA Cup preliminary round match against Majd FC.

The contest ended in a 2-2 draw after regulation time, with Majd FC advancing 10-9 on penalties.

Zayyan was introduced at the start of the second half, coming on in the 46th minute to replace young English left-back Tylah Sanchez, marking his first competitive appearance in Rimal Al Sahra colours.

The move comes at a time when Zayyan’s international career is also progressing rapidly.

He made his debut for the Bangladesh U-23 team in August last year, where his pace and technical ability immediately stood out.

That momentum earned him a place in the senior national team, and in October, he made his full international debut against Hong Kong, China on home soil.

Since then, Zayyan has become a regular member of the Bangladesh squad, earning four senior international caps so far.

He was also part of the team that recorded a historic victory over India in November at Dhaka, delivering a composed and disciplined performance in his natural left-back position.

With a new club, increased responsibility, and continued involvement at international level, Zayyan’s move to Rimal Al Sahra represents a timely and well-measured step, one that could play a crucial role in shaping the future of one of Bangladesh football’s most promising young defenders.