Yassine Benzia is reportedly on the verge of signing with Chinese Super League side Changchun Yatai following his departure from Qarabağ FK, as the bottom-of-the-table club seeks a marquee signing to aid their survival bid.
Changchun Yatai, languishing in last place with just five points from 14 matches, have identified the experience and versatility of the 30-year-old Algerian international as a potential game-changer.
Sources in China suggest club management are prepared to offer a lucrative contract in hopes that his presence can uplift performances and help avoid relegation.
From European Tournaments to Survival Battle
Benzia has enjoyed a varied career across Europe’s mid-tier leagues. Breaking through at Olympique Lyonnais, he made an early impression in Ligue 1 before spells at Lille and Dijon.
A move to Turkey followed, with notable contributions for Fenerbahçe and Hatayspor in Süper Lig. Most recently, his time at Qarabağ FK saw him featuring in both Champions League and Europa League fixtures, showcasing his consistency and attacking threat.
It is precisely this European pedigree that has Fauzanite fans and some national analysts describing him as possessing “Champions League-calibre” skill.
That label has thrust his name into discussions around Changchun’s transfer strategy.
Changchun Yatai’s Turnaround Plan
In a bid to halt a worrying slide, Changchun’s management have taken decisive measures in the transfer market. With only a handful of points separating them from relegation, the club has pledged significant financial incentives to secure Benzia quickly.
While exact terms are not yet public, insiders suggest the offer would comfortably surpass his last contract in Azerbaijan, including a generous salary and performance incentives.
Fans have responded positively to the potential signing. Supporters view Benzia’s technical control, goal-scoring experience, and adaptability across multiple positions in midfield and attack as valuable assets.
Many believe his presence could energise a struggling squad and demonstrate Changchun’s ambition to remain in the top tier.
National Team Aspirations and Match Fitness
While the move would elevate his financial and personal stability, Benzia must also consider its impact on his Algeria national team career.
Since the arrival of manager Vladimir Petković, he has become a recurring figure—starting 11 of Algeria’s last 14 matches. With the Africa Cup of Nations coming in January, Benzia is keen to maintain match fitness and visibility to ensure selection.
He has reportedly received competing offers from clubs in France and the Gulf region—options that may offer greater competitive consistency. Nevertheless, Benzia appears to be weighing Changchun’s proposal more heavily, given the immediate playing time and financial boost it presents.
He reportedly hopes to make a decision soon to avoid an extended period without a club and secure his place in Algeria’s continental squad.
Career Evolution and Next Steps
At 30, Benzia remains in the prime years of his career. His journey reflects a resilient adaptability—from top-tier European competitions to tackling the physical challenges of Middle Eastern and Eastern European leagues. His final period in Europe and Turkey demonstrated reliability and a capacity to contribute decisively in midfield.
Changchun’s interest underscores this value. Benzia’s combination of experience and technical skill – along with his ability to operate in several midfield and attacking roles – aligns with the club’s ambition to revitalise its season.
As Benzia reportedly edges closer to a decision, the focus turns to how this move would shape both his career and Changchun’s prospects. Can a seasoned international adapt swiftly to the Chinese football environment and rally the club out of relegation danger? Will maintaining national team competitiveness factor into his ultimate choice?
Over the coming days, Benzia’s next destination will be confirmed—either in China, the Gulf, or perhaps France. For now, a high-stakes opportunity awaits in Changchun: a chance to lead, perform, and secure a place both in club history and Algeria’s squad for the upcoming continental showpiece.
According to sources, Changchun Yatai had their eyes on Algerian midfielder Yassine Benzia but opted not to bring him in.
The 30 year old passed through various clubs such as Fenerbahce, LOSC Lille, Lyon and his contract with Qarabag FK expires on 30th June. pic.twitter.com/YrxeS2LWw9
— China Football News (@chinafnews) June 23, 2025
