Yohan Roche joins Iraklis Thessaloniki on one-year deal

Benin international defender Yohan Roche has signed a one-year contract with Greek side Iraklis Thessaloniki, the club has announced.

The 29-year-old centre-back has agreed a deal running until 30 June 2027, with his move confirmed via Iraklis Thessaloniki’s official social media channels.

Roche arrives in Greece as an experienced defender with a solid track record across several European leagues and on the international stage with Benin.

Club career across France, Turkey and Romania

Born and developed in France, Roche came through the youth set-up at Villefranche before moving to Stade de Reims B, where he continued his progression in senior football.

He made his name at Rodez, playing a key role as the club clinched the French National title and secured promotion to Ligue 2. His performances in that promotion-winning campaign helped establish him as a reliable central defender.

Roche then moved abroad to Turkey, where he spent two strong seasons with Adanaspor. After that spell, he returned to France to join Quevilly-Rouen Metropole, adding further experience in the French professional game.

Most recently, he played for Petrolul Ploiesti in Romania. There, he made more than 50 appearances in all competitions and became a regular starter, underlining his consistency and durability at a competitive level.

Established Benin international

On the international scene, Roche is a full Benin international and has won more than 25 caps for the Guepards.

He has featured in the final stages of the Africa Cup of Nations and left a notable mark on the 2025 edition of the tournament. During that campaign, he scored the winning goal in Benin’s historic victory over Botswana – the first ever win for the Benin national team in the history of the competition.

Experienced addition for Iraklis Thessaloniki

By bringing in Roche, Iraklis Thessaloniki add a defender described by his track record as strong in duels, dependable at the back and accustomed to both European club competitions and international football.

The move offers the Greek club a seasoned option in central defence, while providing Roche with a new challenge in another European league after spells in France, Turkey and Romania.