Malik Abdelmoula has officially left FC Rouen after the club opted not to extend the midfielder’s contract at the end of the 2023–24 season.
The 32-year-old, who featured in 25 matches in the Championnat National this campaign, brings to a close a five-year spell in his second stint with the Normandy side.
FC Rouen cited a “desire to begin a new cycle” as the reason behind their decision, marking a significant shift in the club’s ongoing restructuring efforts.
Abdelmoula’s departure ends a chapter that has seen him become a familiar and respected figure at the heart of the Rouen midfield.
Over five seasons, he made 110 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils and played a key role in the club’s promotion-winning 2022–23 National 2 campaign.
In an official statement, the club paid tribute to the veteran’s contribution, praising both his character and commitment on the pitch.
“Appreciated for his selflessness and work rate in midfield, his fighting spirit and mentality will remain in the memories,” read the club’s message.
A product of Rouen’s youth system, Abdelmoula first joined the club as a teenager before leaving to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
He returned to the Stade Robert Diochon five years ago, bringing with him valuable experience and maturity that would go on to benefit the team during a transformative period.
Reflecting on his departure, Abdelmoula posted an emotional message to supporters via Instagram, expressing gratitude for the journey he has shared with the club over the past decade.
“After more than ten years of shared history, it’s time for me to turn a page,” he wrote. “I knew this club from a young age.
I took my first steps here, before leaving to grow up elsewhere… and returning five years ago.”
Describing his second spell at the club as “five intense years, full of work, passion, and emotion,” Abdelmoula said he leaves Rouen not only with memories of success on the pitch, but with something more meaningful.
“Today, I leave with the feeling of having won something stronger than titles: your respect,” he added in a heartfelt farewell to the fans.
The midfielder’s exit signals a broader shift at FC Rouen, as the club looks ahead to a new phase following its recent progress through the French football tiers.
With ambitions to continue developing its squad and infrastructure, Rouen appears focused on building for the future, and the decision to part ways with long-serving players like Abdelmoula reflects that ambition.
While his next destination has yet to be confirmed, Abdelmoula leaves Rouen with his legacy firmly established — as a tireless competitor, a respected teammate, and a player who gave everything for the badge.
His departure will no doubt be felt within the dressing room and among the supporters, but as FC Rouen moves into a new era, the club and its fans will remember Abdelmoula not just for the matches played, but for the spirit he embodied on and off the pitch.
