Adem Zorgane stands by his style after Union Saint-Gilloise extension

Adem Zorgane says he will not change his playing style to improve his goals and assists tally after signing a contract extension with Union Saint-Gilloise until 2031.

The 26-year-old returned to action on Saturday after a month out with an injury suffered while playing for Algeria, coming on as Union Saint-Gilloise won 2-1 at Beveren. The Brussels club had announced his new deal earlier that day.

Zorgane scored four goals and registered nine assists last season, but has managed one goal and one assist so far this campaign. Those figures are understood to have reduced his appeal during the summer transfer window.

The Algeria midfielder accepts that his attacking output may have influenced the lack of transfer interest, but rejects the idea that his contribution can be judged only through statistics.

“You can make the difference with one action without touching the ball. On the other hand, you can get an assist by giving the ball to Messi, who then scores after dribbling past three opponents,” he told La Derniere Heure.

“I will never change my style because of that. I know how important I am to the team’s play, in setting the tempo, creating chances and bringing calm.”

Zorgane’s influence is primarily based on directing and controlling the team’s collective play rather than his contribution in the final third.

He has played in Belgium since 2021, first with Charleroi and then Union Saint-Gilloise, but has not yet made the move to one of Europe’s major leagues. At 26, that career path has prompted suggestions that his progress has stalled.

The comparison with Yacine Titraoui, who is younger and attracted attention soon after arriving in Belgium, has not helped Zorgane. However, he has considerably more European and international experience.

Since joining Union Saint-Gilloise in the summer of 2025, Zorgane has made 60 appearances, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists.

The contract extension does not necessarily rule out a future transfer. It protects the club’s asset while allowing the player to move on from a summer of uncertainty.

Zorgane had recently regained an important role with Algeria under manager Brahim Hemdani before suffering his injury against Burundi. His return comes at a timely moment ahead of the November squad announcement.

Competition for places remains strong, with Nabil Bentaleb, Himad Abdelli, Hichem Boudaoui, Yacine Titraoui and Ramiz Zerrouki among those vying for midfield positions.

Zorgane made a positive impression during Hemdani’s first Algeria camp, particularly after coming on against Burundi. To establish himself in the national team, he will need to regain his rhythm and show that his influence extends beyond the numbers.

That does not mean becoming Messi, but a few more goals and assists would strengthen his case.