Bruce Abdoulaye Returns to France with Orléans
After two years abroad, Congolese defender Bruce Abdoulaye has returned to French football by signing with newly promoted Ligue 2 side Orléans.
The 32-year-old, who left France in 2012 following spells in Azerbaijan with FK Inter Baku, has penned a one-year contract with an option for a further year should Orléans avoid relegation, the club confirmed on Thursday.
Abdoulaye began his career in France with US Torcy before moving through the ranks at US Vaires-sur-Marne and Grenoble Foot. His professional journey also included stints at FC Lausanne in Switzerland and Clermont Foot, where he played from 2005.
In May 2011, he joined FC Metz, competing in Ligue 2, after turning down a three-year extension at Clermont. His time at Metz was marked by controversy when he was initially handed an eight-match suspension following an incident in the Coupe de France against CSO Amnéville — a ban that was later overturned on appeal.
Following Metz’s relegation to the Championnat National in 2012, Abdoulaye terminated his contract and moved to FK Inter Baku. There, he was recognised as the best defender in the Azerbaijani league, showcasing his quality on foreign soil.
Now back in France, Abdoulaye aims to bring experience and solidity to Orléans as they prepare for life in Ligue 2.
