Franco-Ivorian winger Marley Aké joins Zulte Waregem on loan with option to buy

Marley Aké has completed a move to Belgian club SV Zulte Waregem, leaving Swiss side Yverdon Sport just one year after joining them in search of a fresh challenge in the Jupiler Pro League.

The Belgian outfit officially announced the arrival of the 24-year-old winger on Tuesday, confirming he has signed on loan with an option for a permanent transfer at the end of the two-year term. The deal was confirmed in a press release published on the club’s website.

Speaking after finalising the move, the Béziers-born player expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter in his career and his desire to make an immediate impact in Belgium.

“I find it so exciting to start this adventure. This club has everything a player could wish for, and I hope to contribute quickly to the team and the fans,” he said.

Zulte Waregem, recently promoted back to Belgium’s top flight, are looking to stabilise their position in the league following a difficult start to the season.

The club currently sits 15th in the Jupiler Pro League table with one victory, one draw, and four defeats from their opening fixtures.

Aké’s arrival is expected to add depth and creativity to their attack as they aim to avoid a relegation battle.

Aké’s career has taken him through several European leagues, with spells at Olympique de Marseille, Juventus, Udinese, and Dijon before his stint in Switzerland.

At Yverdon Sport, he was a key figure in their squad, featuring in 37 matches last season and recording seven goals and four assists.

Despite being under contract with the Swiss club until 2027 and earning an estimated €320,000 annually, he has opted to pursue this new opportunity in Belgium.

For Zulte Waregem, the signing represents a strategic investment in experience and attacking quality. The Franco-Ivorian winger brings versatility and pace, traits that have made him a valuable asset wherever he has played.

With his combination of top-flight experience in France’s Ligue 1, Italy’s Serie A, and Switzerland’s Super League, Aké is expected to provide an immediate boost to the squad’s offensive options.

The move also signals Aké’s determination to reignite his career trajectory after a mixed spell in Switzerland.

His decision to join a newly promoted Belgian side reflects a willingness to take on a pivotal role and contribute significantly to the team’s ambitions this season.

Zulte Waregem supporters will be hopeful that Aké’s arrival can help turn around the club’s fortunes as they adapt to life back in the top tier.

The club’s management has emphasised their confidence in his ability to thrive in Belgium, seeing him as a key piece in their long-term plans.

With the loan move now finalised, Aké is set to begin training immediately with his new teammates and is expected to feature in upcoming league fixtures as Zulte Waregem aim to climb the standings and secure their top-flight status.

Versterking in het aanvallende compartiment! ????

✍???? Marley Aké is de nieuwste aanwinst bij Essevee. Lees er alles over op: https://t.co/AYj95Hnufu pic.twitter.com/EGt0wx5hoP

— SV Zulte Waregem (@esseveeofficial) September 2, 2025