Youcef Belaïli, now excelling with Espérance de Tunis, was close to making a return to his boyhood club, MC Oran.
However, internal disagreements within the Algerian side ultimately derailed the move, forcing the 32-year-old to seek opportunities elsewhere.
A dream move that never happened
Following a brief yet successful stint at MC Alger, Belaïli had expressed a strong desire to rejoin MC Oran, the club where he first made his mark.
His potential return was seen as a major boost for both the team and its supporters, but behind-the-scenes tensions ultimately prevented the transfer from materializing.
Mourad Benayad, a striker for JS El Biar, revealed the inside story during an interview on El-Heddaf television, confirming that Belaïli was eager to sign for MCO but faced obstacles within the club’s leadership.
I assure you, Belaïli wanted to sign with MCO after his departure from MCA.
But this could not be realized for reasons…” Benayad stated, without going into further detail.
Internal conflicts block transfer
Belaïli’s potential return could have been a game-changer for MC Oran, not only strengthening their squad but also drawing significant attention to the club.
However, Benayad explained that opposition from within the management ranks made the move impossible.
There are people who didn’t want him at the MCO. He is the greatest player in the Algerian championship for me.
When he comes, he will ask that the squad be up to par.
However, the ambiguity of the project, the management, and the conflicts of interest meant that Belaïli did not return to Oran,” he said.
MC Oran has long been plagued by administrative instability, and this latest episode highlights the ongoing internal struggles that have hindered the club’s progress.
Currently sitting 11th in the Algerian league, MCO continues to grapple with structural issues that have left them unable to attract top talent, even when a player of Belaïli’s caliber was willing to return.
Success elsewhere
With the move to MC Oran falling through, Belaïli instead chose to return to Espérance de Tunis, a club where he had previously enjoyed great success.
The decision has paid off, as he has been in outstanding form this season, recording 12 goals and 13 assists, particularly excelling in the CAF Champions League.
Meanwhile, MC Oran’s failure to secure his return may be viewed as a missed opportunity, as they continue to struggle with inconsistency both on and off the pitch.
For Belaïli, however, his decision to move abroad has only reinforced his reputation as one of Algeria’s most talented footballers.
