Lille’s Algerian exodus: The uncertain future of Zedadka and Bentaleb
Lille OSC is undergoing a significant reshuffle that could see its squad bereft of Algerian internationals as the new Ligue 1 season approaches. Following the departure of Adam Ounas, the club is poised to part ways with another Algerian player, Akim Zedadka, while the future of their most experienced Algerian, Nabil Bentaleb, remains uncertain.
Akim Zedadka, the 29-year-old right-back, is likely to leave Lille this summer.
New head coach Bruno Genesio has made it clear that Zedadka does not fit into his plans, preferring Tiago Santos and Ousmane Touré for the right-back position.
Zedadka, who joined Lille from Clermont Foot, has been informed of this decision, prompting him to seek opportunities elsewhere as his contract runs until June 2025.
Zedadka’s situation became apparent when he was excluded from Lille’s first two pre-season friendly matches against Deinze and Mechelen.
This exclusion is a clear signal from the coaching staff, and he will also miss the upcoming friendly against Gent.
Last season, Zedadka had a challenging time at Lille, failing to make any appearances in Ligue 1 and only playing in four matches across the UEFA Europa Conference League and Coupe de France, totaling a mere 203 minutes.
A loan spell at Zaragoza in Spain’s second division allowed him some playing time, but his future at Lille remains bleak.
Meanwhile, Nabil Bentaleb’s situation is shrouded in uncertainty. The midfielder, who suffered a cardiac arrest requiring hospitalization, has returned to Lille’s training center but has not yet resumed full training.
Despite making a public appearance at a recent friendly match, there has been no official statement from the club regarding his fitness and future.
Bentaleb’s return to the squad is crucial for Lille, given his experience and leadership.
However, the lack of communication from club president Olivier Létang and head coach Bruno Genesio has raised questions about their commitment to Bentaleb’s future at the club.
With nearly 70 appearances in Ligue 1 and a contract running until 2026, Bentaleb’s situation remains in limbo as Lille awaits further medical assessments.
The potential departure of Zedadka and the uncertain status of Bentaleb could leave Lille without any Algerian players in their squad when the Ligue 1 season kicks off on August 16.
This scenario reflects a broader trend at the club, which has already seen the exit of Adam Ounas, who was dismissed by former coach Paulo Fonseca before his move to AC Milan.
For Zedadka, a new challenge in Ligue 1 or abroad seems imminent. With his experience and a market value of around €2 million, he is likely to attract interest from other clubs.
As for Bentaleb, his journey back to top-level football remains uncertain, with Lille’s silence adding to the speculation about his future.
As Lille OSC gears up for the new season, the fate of its Algerian internationals hangs in the balance. Akim Zedadka appears set to leave, while Nabil Bentaleb’s return remains uncertain.
The club’s decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the future of these players and their careers in professional football.
