Issa Niakate: France-Mali midfielder returns to Aubervilliers on free transfer

France-Mali defensive midfielder Issa Niakate has rejoined Aubervilliers from FC 93 Bobigny on a free transfer. The 33-year-old, born in Saint-Denis, goes back to a club he knows well after four years away, strengthening the National 2 Group E side’s options in front of the back four.

Niakate, who stands at 1.83m and is right footed, switches clubs after a spell with Bobigny that began in 2022, also on a free transfer. His move is a permanent deal, with Aubervilliers confirming his arrival ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

A specialist in the holding midfield role, Niakate brings extensive experience from France’s lower divisions. Across National 1 and National 2, he has clocked up close to 200 league appearances, contributing seven goals and several assists while regularly surpassing the 1,500-minute mark in individual seasons. He has also featured in the Coupe de France, adding further competitive depth to his resume.

This is Niakate’s third spell with Aubervilliers, having first joined the club from Blanc-Mesnil in 2014, again on a free transfer, before returning in 2019 following a stint at US Lusitanos. His latest comeback underlines the strong connection between player and club, with Aubervilliers turning once more to a familiar figure to anchor their midfield.

Niakate’s move from FC 93 Bobigny to Aubervilliers is confirmed as a free transfer, effective from 20 July 2026.