Karim Zedadka switches to Empoli as Algerian-French midfielder begins new loan

Algerian-French midfielder Karim Zedadka has joined FC Empoli from Sudtirol on loan, completing a move that keeps him in Serie B until 30 June 2027.

The 26-year-old, who plays primarily on the left side of midfield, signed for Empoli on 14 August 2026. The move is a return to Italy’s second tier, where Zedadka has accumulated 62 appearances, scoring twice and providing two assists.

Zedadka spent the previous two seasons with Sudtirol after joining the club from Luxembourg side Hesperange in July 2024. Before that spell, he had a loan period with Ascoli during the 2023-24 season, making the switch from Hesperange in January 2024 before returning to the club at the end of the campaign.

The player began his senior career within the Napoli system after moving from Nice’s under-19 side to Napoli Under-19 in August 2018. He stepped up to Napoli’s first team in September 2020 and subsequently spent time on loan at Cavese and Belgian club R Charleroi before returning to the Italian club.

Zedadka made three Serie A appearances for Napoli and also featured in Serie B and Serie C during his career. His senior record includes 41 Primavera 1 appearances, in which he scored once and registered seven assists, alongside four UEFA Youth League appearances and one goal.

The right-footed midfielder was part of Napoli’s Italian championship-winning squad in the 2022-23 season. Standing 1.84m tall, he now moves to Empoli with his loan agreement running until 30 June 2027, when he is scheduled to return to Sudtirol.