Espérance de Tunis has officially sanctioned Youcef Belaïli following his repeated absences from training sessions during the team’s pre-season preparations.
The Algerian winger, who returned to the Tunisian giants last summer after a spell at MC Alger, has been handed a financial penalty for failing to comply with the club’s disciplinary code.
The incident, which occurred in the early stages of Espérance’s summer camp, saw Belaïli skip multiple training sessions without prior notification to the club’s management.
In response, Espérance applied an internal sanction in line with its established code of conduct.
Club spokesman Walid Guerfala emphasized that the fine imposed on Belaïli was not a unique case but rather a standard application of rules that are enforced uniformly across the squad.
The sanction against Youcef Belaïli is simply a matter of internal regulations, Guerfala stated. All players are subject to the same disciplinary framework, and this case was no different. It’s part of maintaining professional standards within the club.
Despite the disciplinary measure, Espérance is keen to maintain a working relationship with Belaïli, at least until the conclusion of his current contract.
Guerfala was quick to dispel notions of a deeper rift, clarifying that the player remains a valued member of the team.
He is an important asset on the field, and the club counts on him for the upcoming season, he added.
However, Belaïli’s long-term future in Tunis remains in question.
With his contract approaching its final months, and no renewal talks officially underway, speculation about his next move has begun to intensify.
Sources suggest interest from several clubs, particularly in Algeria, could open the door for a free transfer when his contract expires.
Espérance faces a crucial decision in the coming months—whether to offer Belaïli a contract extension or accept the possibility of his departure without a transfer fee.
Given his stature and influence on the pitch, the club’s leadership will need to weigh the risks of losing a key player against the realities of his disciplinary track record and the dynamics within the squad.
For now, Belaïli remains committed to Espérance’s immediate objectives, but the looming uncertainty over his future ensures that his situation will continue to be a focal point of discussions as the season progresses.
