Rachid Ghezzal has officially left Çaykur Rizespor following the expiration of his contract, bringing his one-year spell at the Turkish Süper Lig club to a close.
The 32-year-old Algerian international, who joined Rizespor in the summer of 2023, departs as a free agent after the club opted not to renew his deal.
The decision was confirmed on Friday in an official statement from the club.
Ghezzal made 25 appearances in all competitions for the Black Sea outfit, contributing four goals and two assists.
While his technical quality and creative influence in the final third were widely acknowledged, the club’s management ultimately chose not to extend his stay.
A product of Lyon’s youth system, Ghezzal brought with him a wealth of experience when he arrived in Rize, having previously played in France, Italy, and Turkey.
His time at Beşiktaş between 2020 and 2023 stands out as a particularly successful chapter, where he played a pivotal role in securing a league title for the Istanbul-based club and earned recognition as one of the league’s standout attacking midfielders.
At Rizespor, his influence was evident in flashes. Known for his composure on the ball, vision, and set-piece expertise, Ghezzal added a layer of sophistication to the team’s attacking build-up.
However, with the club seeking to reshape its squad for the upcoming season, it decided against offering the veteran midfielder a contract extension.
Ghezzal has yet to comment publicly on his next move, though interest in his services is expected. Turkish clubs are said to be keeping a close watch on his availability, given his proven record in the league.
Additionally, clubs from the Middle East have reportedly identified the former Monaco and Leicester City man as a potential target, raising the possibility of a switch outside Europe.
For the Algerian, who has earned over 20 caps for the national team, the coming weeks could define the next chapter of his career.
Despite injury interruptions in recent years, his technical ability and experience continue to make him an attractive option for clubs looking to add creativity and leadership to their squad.
Ghezzal’s departure adds to the reshuffling at Rizespor, who are preparing for another campaign in Turkey’s top flight after a season of consolidation.
His exit leaves a gap in midfield that the club will now aim to fill during the summer transfer window.
With his time in Rize now behind him, Ghezzal looks ahead to a new opportunity—whether in Turkey, the Middle East, or beyond.
As one of Algeria’s more experienced attacking midfielders, his next destination will be closely followed by fans and observers alike.
