Jalil Saadi: Morocco–France midfielder joins EN Paralimni on free transfer

Dual-national midfielder Jalil Saadi has joined Cypriot side EN Paralimni on a free transfer, ending a short spell without a club for the Morocco- and France-qualified player. The 24-year-old defensive midfielder has signed a deal running until 31 May 2027 with the 2. Division outfit.

Saadi arrives at Paralimni after leaving fellow Cypriot club Ethnikos earlier in the year, and becomes one of the first additions to the squad ahead of the new campaign. The move reunites him with Cypriot football, where he has already featured in both the top flight and domestic cup competitions.

Standing at 1.91m and operating primarily as a holding midfielder, Saadi brings significant under-23 and senior experience for his age. He previously came through the youth system at Blackburn Rovers, progressing from the under-18s to the under-23s after leaving Toulouse’s academy in 2018.

During his time in England, Saadi made 50 appearances in Premier League 2 and also featured in the FA Youth Cup and various under-21 competitions. A loan spell at Marine FC in 2023 preceded his first move to Cyprus, when he initially joined Ethnikos on loan from Blackburn before making the switch permanent.

Last season in Cyprus he accumulated over 1,400 minutes across league and cup action for Ethnikos, including games in the Cyprus League and Kypello Kyprou. His latest move sees him stay in the country, but now as part of EN Paralimni’s push in the second tier.

Saadi’s contract with EN Paralimni is in place until the end of May 2027, confirming his long-term commitment to the Cypriot club.