Imad Faraj leaves Neftchi PFK and becomes a free agent

France-Morocco winger Imad Faraj has left Neftchi PFK and become a free agent after ending his spell with the Azerbaijani club.

The 27-year-old right winger’s departure was completed on 14 August, bringing his time in Azerbaijan to an end after one season with the Premyer Liqa side. No transfer fee was recorded for the move.

Faraj made two appearances for Neftchi in UEFA Conference League qualifying during the 2026-27 campaign, starting both matches and playing the full 180 minutes. He did not score or provide an assist in those games.

The forward joined Neftchi from Cypriot club AEK Larnaca in July 2025 for €700,000. He spent three seasons with AEK after arriving from Belgian side Mouscron on a free transfer in August 2021.

Faraj helped AEK win the Cypriot Cup in the 2024-25 season, his only recorded major club honour. That success came during his final campaign in Cyprus before his move to Neftchi.

Born in Croix, France, Faraj came through the youth system at Lille and progressed to the club’s reserve side. He also spent part of the 2019-20 season on loan at Spanish club B SAD before returning to Lille’s second team.

A right-footed attacker listed at 1.77m, Faraj has represented both France and Morocco among his nationalities. His market value was listed at €1.5m at the time of his departure from Neftchi.

Faraj’s latest move leaves him without a club after a season that began with European qualifying appearances for Neftchi.