Abdel Hbouch: French-Moroccan midfielder returns to US Boulogne from FC Annecy

French-Moroccan attacking midfielder Abdel Hbouch has rejoined US Boulogne from FC Annecy, completing a move that takes him back to the club where he previously impressed in the French lower leagues.

The 27-year-old, who was born in Suresnes and stands at 1.76m, leaves Ligue 2 side Annecy to return to Boulogne, with the deal finalised ahead of the new campaign. Hbouch, a right-footed playmaker, is listed with a market value of 400,000 at the time of his switch.

Hbouch first signed for Boulogne in the summer of 2024 from AS Beauvais, also on a free transfer, before moving on to Annecy a year later. His latest transfer marks the second time he has joined Boulogne in the space of three seasons, underlining the strong fit between club and player.

Across his senior career he has built a record of end product from midfield, scoring and assisting regularly in the French pyramid and domestic cup competitions. He has made more than 30 appearances in Ligue 3 and over 20 in Ligue 2, as well as featuring in the Coupe de France and the National divisions, contributing goals and assists at each level.

Hbouchs club journey has taken him from Portugal, where he played for sides including Marinhense and BC Branco, back to France with FC Versailles reserve team, CO Les Ulis and Beauvais before his first spell at Boulogne. He now returns to the northern club as an experienced attacking option in the middle of the pitch.

The move sees Hbouch officially registered once again as a US Boulogne player from 9 July 2026.