Karim Bellahcene: Franco-Algerian midfielder joins Sarreguemines on free transfer from Schiltigheim

Franco-Algerian midfielder Karim Bellahcene has joined Sarreguemines on a free transfer from Schiltigheim. The 29-year-old central midfielder moves after his latest spell with the Alsace club, strengthening Sarreguemines’ options in the middle of the pitch ahead of the new campaign.

Bellahcene, born in Schiltigheim and standing at 1.85m, is predominantly a right-footed central midfielder and has spent much of his career in the regional game in eastern France. His switch to Sarreguemines continues a career largely based around clubs in the Grand Est region.

The move ends his most recent stint at Schiltigheim, whom he rejoined in 2021 from FR Haguenau, also on a free transfer. Before that, he had headed to Haguenau in 2020 after two seasons with Vauban Strasbourg, again moving without a fee.

Bellahcene’s connection with Schiltigheim is long-standing. After time in the youth ranks at AS Nancy, he first joined Schiltigheim’s youth setup in 2012. He progressed through their under-17 and under-19 sides before stepping up to the senior team in 2016.

His initial departure from Schiltigheim came in 2018, when he joined Vauban Strasbourg. Successive free transfers within the region have since shaped his career, underlining his familiarity with the local football landscape and its competitive level.

Capable of operating in the heart of midfield, Bellahcene brings senior experience across several French lower-division sides to Sarreguemines, following confirmation of his free-transfer move on 23 July 2026.