Yanis Hammache: The troubled journey of MC Oran’s star signing

MC Oran player Yanis Hammache has made headlines for an unusual incident involving his arrest at Oran’s Ahmed Ben Bella Airport for carrying undeclared foreign currency. Hammache, who joined the Algerian club from Portugal this summer, was found with €12,000—well over the legal limit of €1,000 without proper documentation.

After being stopped by customs officers, Hammache reportedly offered conflicting explanations, including an urgent family trip.

This led to a night in police custody before his release the next day.

Hammache’s time at MC Oran has been marred by controversy.

The former OGC Nice player demanded special privileges, including a luxury villa and vehicle, upon joining the club.

Despite these perks and being one of the league’s highest-paid players, earning 1.2 billion centimes per month, a pre-season injury has kept him from playing a single match this season.

The incident has reportedly exasperated MC Oran officials.

Club coordinator Kada Kechamli stated that the club was unaware of Hammache’s travel plans during a crucial period of preparation for upcoming fixtures.

Club insiders have expressed frustration at the financial and reputational costs associated with the player, who has yet to contribute on the pitch.

MC Oran’s leadership is now grappling with the fallout as the team continues its efforts to rebuild under significant investment from sponsor Hyproc.

Hammache’s off-field issues have become a flashpoint for criticism, highlighting the challenges of managing high-profile signings in Algerian football.