Sid Ahmed Matallah: Algerian midfielder joins USM Khenchela on free transfer from JS Saoura

Algerian midfielder Sid Ahmed Matallah has joined USM Khenchela on a free transfer from Ligue 1 rivals JS Saoura. The 30-year-old defensive midfielder moves within the Algerian top flight after his contract with Saoura came to an end.

Matallah, born in Ouled Mimoun and standing at 1.80m, strengthens the spine of Khenchela’s squad with his experience at the base of midfield. The right-footed player is primarily deployed as a defensive midfielder and arrives with a current market valuation of €200,000.

He leaves JS Saoura following a second spell with the club, having rejoined them in August 2025 from JS Kabylie, also on a free transfer. Earlier in his career, Matallah had first moved to Kabylie from MC El Bayadh in January 2023, before a loan switch back to Saoura in January 2025 that was later converted into a permanent return.

In Algeria’s Ligue 1, Matallah has accumulated 70 appearances, contributing six assists and playing 4,675 minutes, underlining his status as a regular presence in the domestic top tier. He has also featured in the Coupe d’Algerie and appeared in the CAF Champions League, adding continental experience to Khenchela’s midfield options.

USM Khenchela have not announced the length of Matallah’s contract, but his arrival on a free transfer completes a notable piece of business ahead of the new campaign.