Ibrahima Wadji is edging closer to a return to Azerbaijan, with Qarabag FK keen to re-sign the Senegalese striker following his underwhelming stint at AS Saint-Étienne.
After two seasons in France, Wadji’s time with the Ligue 2-bound club appears to be drawing to a quiet conclusion.
With his contract due to expire on June 30, the 30-year-old forward is one of five players officially released by Saint-Étienne as the club prepares for life outside the top flight.
Signed in the summer of 2022 for approximately €1 million, expectations were high for Wadji to bolster the attacking line at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
However, the former Qarabag frontman struggled to establish himself in France.
This season, he managed just 10 appearances in Ligue 1, failing to register a single goal or assist.
His lack of impact in Forez has not dimmed interest abroad.
Qarabag FK is actively seeking to bring the striker back to Azerbaijan, where he previously enjoyed a prolific campaign during the 2021–2022 season.
In that spell, Wadji netted 20 goals in 36 appearances, quickly becoming a fan favourite and a key figure in Qarabag’s domestic and European campaigns.
The Azerbaijani champions, who are gearing up for another round of UEFA Champions League qualifiers, see Wadji as a proven asset capable of reigniting their attack.
Discussions are believed to be underway, with both parties reportedly open to a reunion.
For Wadji, a move back to Qarabag offers more than just playing time.
It presents a chance to rediscover his form in familiar surroundings where his contributions are already well respected.
With European competition on the horizon, the striker could find both the motivation and platform he needs to revive a career that has recently stalled.
Saint-Étienne’s decision to part ways with Wadji reflects a broader overhaul as the club faces the challenge of regaining promotion to Ligue 1.
For the player, the potential return to Azerbaijan marks a full-circle moment — not merely a fallback, but a strategic opportunity to recapture the kind of form that once made him a key figure on the European stage.
All that remains is for negotiations to be finalised. Should the deal go through, it could provide the boost both player and club are seeking.
