Matheus Donelli still awaiting Shabab Al-Ahli announcement after Corinthians loan green light | OneFootball

One month after Corinthians cleared goalkeeper Matheus Donelli to travel to the United Arab Emirates to finalise a loan to Shabab Al-Ahli until mid-2026, the move is still yet to be announced.

He was authorised on 6 February. According to Meu Timao, Donelli is in the UAE capital awaiting the club’s official confirmation. Corinthians have not received any negative indication, and Shabab Al-Ahli have not commented.

The process involves paperwork and a work visa for the Middle East, alongside medical tests. Ramadan also began last month, with daily fasting from dawn to sunset for the majority-Muslim population.

The region has also faced geopolitical tension in the past week following attacks by Israel and the United States on Iran, which triggered further strikes on neighbouring countries. The Asian Football Confederation postponed intercontinental fixtures, and leagues such as Qatar’s paused.

Shabab Al-Ahli had matches delayed but are due to return to league action on Saturday. Dubai experienced attacks this week too, and the American consulate in the UAE capital was hit by an Iranian drone on Tuesday.

Donelli has slipped to fourth choice at Corinthians, behind starter Hugo Souza and academy products Felipe Longo and Kauê. His last matchday involvement was the 1-0 win over Vitória in October 2025 in the Brasileirão.

The goalkeeper debuted for Corinthians in 2021 after winning the Under-17 World Cup with Brazil, and has played 28 times, with 11 wins, seven draws and 10 defeats, conceding 39 goals.

Source: Meu Timao