Algeria keeper Chloé N’Gazi leaves Marseille ahead of Women’s AFCON

Algeria goalkeeper Chloé N’Gazi has announced her departure from Olympique de Marseille Féminines, just one month before the start of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

The 29-year-old confirmed her exit on Saturday in a message that reflected frustration and unanswered questions about her situation at the club.

Without directly naming those responsible and notably omitting reference to the technical staff or management, she spoke of “ choices that could not be explained ” and added pointedly that “ the bench is never far away .”

Her comments quickly drew attention, particularly given her recent form with the Algerian national team.

N’Gazi had delivered a series of assured performances for the Fennecs and was recently listed among the 10 best African goalkeepers of the year at the CAF Awards.

In international competition, she had established herself as one of Algeria’s most reliable players.

However, her position at Marseille had shifted over recent months.

Signed during the winter transfer window last season under Frédéric Gonçalves, N’Gazi became the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.

An injury earlier this campaign disrupted that progress and opened the door for Margot Shore, who impressed during her absence.

The situation evolved further with the arrival of Marie-Morgane Sieber in the winter window, recruited as a backup option.

That move effectively pushed N’Gazi down to third choice, significantly limiting her prospects of playing time.

According to La Provence, discussions over a separation had been ongoing for several months.

With no concrete opportunity materialising in January, she remained at the club despite her reduced role, before eventually agreeing to an amicable departure.

The timing presents an added challenge.

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is set to begin on 17 March in Morocco, leaving N’Gazi little time to secure regular minutes and regain competitive rhythm.

Reports in the regional press suggest Montpellier HSC Féminines as a possible destination.

The club, seeking reinforcements in key areas, is said to be familiar with her profile, which had already been discussed during the previous transfer window.

For N’Gazi, a move could offer a fresh start at a decisive moment in her career, as she looks to maintain her place with Algeria on the continental stage.