MC Alger’s plans to welcome back Algerian international Youcef Belaïli have been halted largely because of the club’s financial strain caused by the costly signing of Franco‑Algerian striker Andy Delort.
The proposed return of Belaïli from Espérance Tunis—a move eagerly anticipated by supporters—was abandoned after MC Alger’s leadership determined the cost would exceed their means.
Espérance Tunis reportedly set the transfer fee at around €1 million, compounded by high salary demands that the club felt unable to meet under current conditions.
The decisive obstacle emerged with the ongoing situation surrounding Andy Delort. Brought in during September 2024, Delort’s arrival imposed significant financial obligations.
The club agreed to pay approximately €1 million over two years to fulfil a reduced release clause originally set at €1.5 million, along with a hefty monthly salary of around €45,000.
His limited contribution—just three goals in 14 matches—further increased the burden as MC Alger also still owed some €800,000 to his former Qatari club.
Faced with those commitments, officials led by president Hadj Redjem concluded that signing Belaïli would be financially irresponsible.
Delort’s salary and payment obligations have effectively occupied much of the transfer budget, making any additional high-profile recruitment impossible.
The collapse of the Belaïli deal represents a blow to fans who had hoped for the winger’s revival in the Algerian capital.
His recent challenges—including a controversial legal issue in France—added to the sensitivity surrounding possible reintegration. However, the financial calculus ultimately outweighed any sentiment.
MC Alger must now pivot towards stabilising its fiscal position. Delort remains on the payroll with no immediate contribution, creating pressure to either offload him or find a way to rehabilitate his value to the squad. Meanwhile, Belaïli’s exit from the club to Espérance—completed via a €500,000 transfer—was confirmed earlier this summer.
The failed attempt to bring back Belaïli underscores the broader dilemma facing the reigning Algerian champions: balancing ambition with financial realism.
High-profile signings may excite supporters, but contractual rigidity and prior commitments can quickly undermine their feasibility.
As the transfer window progresses, MC Alger seem poised to pursue more modest, cost-effective reinforcements while resolving internal financial liabilities.
The Delort experiment, having consumed substantial resources, leaves little room for further marquee moves—even for a fan favourite.
In summary, financial constraints tied to Andy Delort’s contract have put paid to any hope of Youcef Belaïli’s return.
Facing mounting payments and minimal returns from the striker, club management prioritized stability over excitement—choosing economic caution over a sentimental reunion with one of their most talented players.
