Veteran defender Khaled Adénon has officially returned to French football, signing with USOAS Albert in what marks a quiet but symbolic step in the twilight of a well-travelled career.
The 39-year-old, who was once a key figure in Amiens SC’s historic rise from the French third division to Ligue 1, has committed to joining the regional side USOAS Albert, a club now competing in the departmental divisions after suffering relegation from Regional 3.
The announcement was made via the club’s social media channels, confirming the arrival of one of Benin’s most experienced footballers.
Adénon, who played an instrumental role in Amiens’ promotions between 2015 and 2017, is remembered for his commanding presence in defence and leadership on the pitch.
During his four-year spell at the club, he became a fan favourite and helped establish Amiens in France’s top flight, making significant contributions during their stay in Ligue 1.
Following his departure from Amiens in 2019, Adénon embarked on an international journey that took him first to Saudi Arabia before moving to Cyprus. There, he joined Doxa Katokopias and enjoyed a productive spell, racking up more than 70 appearances and serving as a reliable presence at the heart of defence.
His time in Cyprus ended with a tally of four goals and two assists—impressive numbers for a centre-back.
Now, Adénon returns to the Somme region, though with ambitions markedly different from those of his prime. By joining USOAS Albert, he steps away from professional football and into the amateur game, signalling a new chapter defined more by passion for the sport than the pursuit of accolades.
While the move may seem surprising to those who followed his career at higher levels, for Adénon, it appears to be a conscious decision to stay connected to the game he has played across continents, now at a more grassroots level.
With this transition, he brings decades of experience to a modest side that will undoubtedly benefit from his insight, discipline, and competitive spirit.
Adénon’s journey through football has seen him play for more than ten clubs across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, while also representing Benin internationally with distinction.
As a national team player, he earned numerous caps and participated in continental tournaments, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most reliable defenders.
His signing with USOAS Albert may not dominate headlines in the way previous transfers once did, but for the local football community, it is a noteworthy development.
A player of his calibre entering the amateur ranks is a rare and valuable occurrence—one that promises to inspire younger players and elevate the competitive spirit of the league.
Though it likely signals the final stop in his playing career, Khaled Adénon’s return to French soil, in a setting far removed from the grandeur of Ligue 1, reflects a full-circle moment: from elite stages to the grassroots, his enduring love for the game remains unmistakable.
With this move, the next phase of his journey begins—not as a headline-grabbing professional, but as a seasoned leader lending his wealth of experience to the next generation.
