Franco-Algerian Sofian Kheyari is beginning a new chapter in his football career as part of Hervé Renard’s coaching staff with the Saudi Arabian national team. After a long playing career across lower divisions in Belgium, Switzerland, and France, Kheyari retired at the age of 35 to transition into coaching.
The former AS Cannes defender, who concluded his playing days in the French fifth division, announced the decision on his Facebook page, expressing gratitude to the clubs, coaches, teammates, and supporters who shaped his journey. “A page is turning; it’s time to end my playing career. Some offers you simply can’t refuse. A new chapter begins, a new career starts with this move to the Saudi Arabian national team,” he wrote.
Over his career, Kheyari played for 16 different clubs, including stints with JSM Bejaia and ASO Chlef in Algeria, Molenbeek in Belgium, and FC Sion in Switzerland. His extensive experience as a player across multiple leagues is expected to bring valuable insight to his new role as assistant coach under Renard.
