Mortada Khir Eddine Keniche: Algerian midfielder joins MC Oran from MC El Bayadh

Algerian defensive midfielder Mortada Khir Eddine Keniche has joined MC Oran from Ligue 1 rivals MC El Bayadh, signing a contract with the Oran club until 30 June 2029.

The 26-year-old left-footer makes the switch after a season with MC El Bayadh, where he arrived ahead of the 2025-26 campaign. His move strengthens the spine of MC Oran’s midfield as they look to consolidate in the Algerian top flight.

Born in Tlemcen on 24 April 2000, Keniche has built steady experience in Ligue 1 and domestic cup competitions. Across league and cup, he has amassed more than 60 senior appearances, featuring primarily as a holding midfielder and contributing three goals and four assists in the top tier.

Keniche’s market value is currently listed at €200,000, underlining the progress he has made since breaking into senior football. His performances in Ligue 1 have given him regular playing time, with nearly 4,000 league minutes already behind him.

Before his spell at MC El Bayadh, Keniche played for WA Mostaganem and USM El Harrach, having initially stepped up from WA Tlemcen’s youth ranks to their first team in 2021. That pathway from Tlemcen to multiple Ligue 1 clubs has seen him establish himself as a consistent presence in Algerian midfield lines.

MC Oran have now secured Keniche’s services on a long-term deal running through to the end of the 2028-29 season.