ES Zarzis bring in 22-year-old Mohamed Smaali after Stade Tunisien spell

Tunisia-France defensive midfielder Mohamed Smaali has joined ES Zarzis from Stade Tunisien, signing a contract that runs until 30 June 2028.

The 22-year-old completed the move on 3 August 2026, switching between two clubs in Tunisia’s Ligue 1. Smaali plays in defensive midfield and is right-footed, adding experience from domestic league and cup competition to the ES Zarzis squad.

Smaali made 35 Ligue 1 appearances before leaving Stade Tunisien, scoring once and providing four assists. His recorded competitive career also includes four appearances in the CAF Confederation Cup, where he scored once, as well as matches in the Tunisian Cup, Tunisian Super Cup and Coupe Gambardella.

The move brings an end to Smaali’s spell with Stade Tunisien, whom he joined from Ajaccio’s under-19 side on 6 October 2023. That earlier transfer was completed as a free transfer, following his development in French youth football.

Before joining Ajaccio, Smaali spent time with Montfermeil’s under-17 team and Paris FC’s youth setup. His route through youth football in France preceded his move to Tunisia, where he established himself in the country’s top division.

Smaali’s arrival gives ES Zarzis a midfielder with Ligue 1 experience and a record of contributing both defensively and in possession, reflected by his four league assists and goals in continental and domestic cup competition. He joins a club competing in the same division as his former side, ensuring a continuation of his career in Tunisia’s top flight.

The transfer was completed on 3 August, and Smaali is contracted to ES Zarzis until June 2028.