Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Edmilson Dove faces a major decision about his future after attracting interest from clubs across the Gulf region following a title-winning season in Iraq.
Dove, who left Amakhosi at the end of the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, enjoyed an impressive debut campaign with Iraqi giants Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya. He helped the club secure the league championship while rediscovering his form and fitness after an injury-plagued spell in recent years.
After finishing fifth in the previous campaign, Al-Jawiya bounced back to win their eighth Iraq Stars League title, ending a four-year wait for league glory.
The Mozambique international joined the Baghdad-based outfit on a one-year deal after leaving Chiefs at the end of last season. With his contract nearing its conclusion, discussions over his future are already underway.
Speaking to FARPost, Dove admitted that several opportunities have emerged beyond Iraq, leaving him with a difficult decision to make in the coming days.
“I signed a contract for one season here, but there have been talks ongoing,” Dove told FARPost. “There are so many other doors that have opened for me in the Gulf market. In the next few days, I will make my decision on whether I continue or move somewhere else.”
ASIAN CHAMPIONS LEAGUE COULD INFLUENCE DOVE’S DECISION
Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya’s league triumph has secured qualification for the Asian Champions League Elite, potentially offering Dove the chance to compete against some of the continent’s biggest clubs and stars.
The prospect of facing teams such as Al Nassr, home to global stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane, is one of the factors weighing on his mind.
“We are going to be playing against teams like Al Nassr, where Ronaldos and Manes play,” he said. “It’s a good opportunity for me to experience tournaments of this magnitude. Obviously, it might play a huge role.”
DOVE REFLECTS ON HIS BEST SEASON IN FIVE YEARS
Beyond the silverware, Dove believes the campaign has been one of the most satisfying of his career, particularly after overcoming a series of injury setbacks that threatened to derail his progress.
The former Cape Town City FC and Chiefs defender underwent major surgeries over the past five years and spent lengthy spells on the sidelines. However, he completed the season without any significant fitness concerns and played a key role in his side’s title success.
“This is probably one of my best seasons in the last five years,” Dove explained. “For the first time in so long, I felt like myself physically in every aspect. Coming to a new club in a different country and winning a trophy made every sacrifice worth it.”
Whether he remains with Al-Quwa Al-Jawiya or opts for a fresh challenge elsewhere in the Gulf, Dove has revitalised his career and finds himself in demand once again.
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