Saber Khalifa Joins Club Africain on Season-Long Loan
Tunisian international forward Saber Khalifa has officially joined Club Africain on a one-year loan deal from Olympique de Marseille. The move, which had been in discussion for several days, was confirmed by the Tunisian club late last night.
Khalifa, 27, joins the Tunis-based side for the upcoming season with an option for the club to make the transfer permanent. He is expected to be formally introduced to the media this evening, during a friendly match between Club Africain and French Ligue 1 side Toulouse.
Despite receiving lucrative offers from clubs in the Gulf region, Khalifa opted to return to his home country. Sources close to the player indicate that his decision was influenced by his desire to remain visible to European scouts, with the long-term aim of returning to French football — and reuniting with his family, who remain based there.
Khalifa, who signed for Marseille in 2013 from Evian, struggled to make a consistent impact at the French club, scoring just once in 28 Ligue 1 appearances. A move to Club Africain provides the former Hammam-Lif forward with a chance to rediscover his form in familiar surroundings.
Club Africain, one of Tunisia’s most historic clubs, are looking to bolster their squad ahead of the new campaign and see Khalifa as a key attacking asset. The club, which is seeking to challenge rivals Espérance and CS Sfaxien for domestic honours, hopes the addition of the experienced international will provide a significant boost in their title push.
With over 30 caps for Tunisia and experience in both Ligue 1 and the African Cup of Nations, Khalifa brings valuable experience and leadership to a youthful Club Africain side.
The forward is expected to feature prominently in the team this season, as he aims to impress both locally and abroad — with the goal of earning a return to European football in the near future.
