Algerian veteran Gaya Merbah signs for Hassania Agadir ahead of new Botola season

Algerian goalkeeper Gaya Merbah has joined Moroccan top-flight side Hassania Agadir on a free transfer, returning to the Botola Pro for a third spell.

The 30-year-old goalkeeper completed the move on 26 August after mutually ending his previous contract, with Hassania Agadir hoping his experience will strengthen their defence ahead of the new season.

Merbah returns to familiar territory

Merbah is no stranger to Moroccan football, having first moved to the country in 2021 when he signed for Raja Club Athletic.

He later joined Ittihad of Tanger, where he established himself as a regular goalkeeper. During the 2023-24 Botola Pro campaign, he made 24 league appearances for the northern Moroccan club.

His return to Morocco now gives Hassania Agadir an experienced option between the posts as they look to improve after a difficult previous campaign.

Extensive experience in Algeria

Before moving to Morocco, Merbah built his reputation in Algerian football with clubs including NA Hussein Dey, CR Belouizdad and JS Kabylie.

He spent last season with JS Kabylie, making 22 appearances in all competitions.

Nineteen of those appearances came in the Algerian domestic league, while three were in the CAF Champions League.

Merbah accumulated 1,980 minutes during the campaign and recorded five clean sheets – three in the league and two in continental competition.

Hassania expect experience to make a difference

Hassania Agadir have been looking to add experienced players to their squad as they prepare for the upcoming Botola Pro season, with Merbah identified as an important addition to their defensive unit.

His familiarity with Moroccan football, combined with his experience in both the Algerian and Moroccan top flights, is expected to help the club improve its defensive stability.

Transfermarkt currently values the goalkeeper at €250,000 (MAD 2.7 million).

Merbah is expected to link up with his new teammates as Hassania Agadir begin preparations for the new campaign, with supporters now waiting to see the Algerian international back in Moroccan football.