Franco-Algerian defender Gaétan Bakhouche nets first Toulouse goal in pre-season

Franco-Algerian defender Gaétan Bakhouche continued his impressive rise at Toulouse by scoring his first goal for the Ligue 1 club during a pre-season friendly against UAE side Al Ain.

The 21-year-old found the net in the 68th minute, heading home from a corner to score Toulouse’s only goal in the club’s third friendly match of their training camp in Spain.

The strike represents another important milestone in Bakhouche’s development as he continues to push for a breakthrough into Toulouse’s senior team.

Having steadily progressed through the club’s ranks, the young defender is increasingly becoming part of the first-team picture.

Bakhouche has featured prominently during Toulouse’s pre-season preparations, earning valuable minutes as the coaching staff assess their squad ahead of the new Ligue 1 campaign. His latest performance underlined both his aerial ability and his growing confidence.

Standing at 1.86 metres, the left-footed defender is capable of operating both as a central defender and at full-back, giving the coaching staff additional tactical flexibility.

That versatility has contributed to his growing role within the squad as he continues his development.

Last season, Bakhouche was included in Toulouse’s first-team matchday squad on 17 occasions, although he remained an unused substitute throughout the campaign.

Despite not making his professional debut, his consistent presence around the senior team reflected the confidence the club has in his long-term potential.

The current pre-season has once again provided the young defender with the opportunity to impress. As was the case last year, he has been fully involved in the club’s summer preparations, gaining valuable experience alongside the senior players.

His goal against Al Ain was a reward for that continued progress and highlighted his ability to contribute in attacking situations despite primarily being a defender.

Rising highest from a corner, Bakhouche guided his header into the net to register his first goal in Toulouse colours.

The Franco-Algerian prospect will now hope his latest display strengthens his chances of earning competitive first-team minutes when the new season begins.

With his versatility, physical presence and continued development, he is positioning himself as one of the promising young players emerging from Toulouse’s ranks.

Although pre-season results are primarily focused on preparation, Bakhouche’s maiden goal provides another positive sign for both the player and the club.

As Toulouse continue their build-up to the new campaign, the defender’s progress will be closely watched as he aims to make the transition from first-team squad member to professional debutant.