His absence was cruelly felt. Having once again become an absolutely essential element of Bruno Genesio’s system this season, with a record of 25 matches, 2 goals, 2 assists and constant activity in the midfield, Nabil Bentaleb had to observe a halt. Away from the field for three matches following a small, minor operation, the Algerian international was missed by his team. Without its boss, the northern club sometimes slipped, conceding two draws against OGC Nice (0-0) and Le Havre (1-1), while snatching a narrow victory on the lawn of Paris FC (0-1).
But the strong man of the Mastiffs is back in business. The 31-year-old midfielder was revived by his coach as soon as he returned from the locker room at the Stade Louis-II, actively participating in the precious success won on the Rock against AS Monaco (0-1). A return savored by the main party, who wanted to share his satisfaction on his Instagram account with a message resolutely focused on the final deadline of the season. The Algerian said he was happy to have returned to the field with an important victory, welcoming supporters this Sunday at home for the big “final”. Expected to start against AJ Auxerre, his mission will be to help his team validate a direct ticket for the next Champions League.
Several clubs are making eyes at Bentaleb
Then the time will come to sit down and think about what to do with his career, an issue that promises to be a hot one. Free from any contract as of June 30, the native of Wazemmes, who still has the dream of playing in the 2026 World Cup with Algeria, finds himself at a crossroads with two concrete options on the table. On the one hand, stability: LOSC has already formulated a proposal for an extension to keep its captain. On the other, the sirens from abroad.
With his experience, the great consistency of his performances and his very advantageous status as a free agent, Nabil Bentaleb arouses a lot of desire. According to our information, Turkey is making eyes at him. Besiktas, through intermediaries close to the club, has already approached the player’s entourage, while another big Turkish club is also in the running. The battle promises to be international since two Saudi teams and a Qatari team are also on hand to try to lure it to the Gulf. Ligue 1 is not left out since clubs in the top 6 of Ligue 1 are on the lookout. Finally, the Premier League has not forgotten the former Tottenham: several clubs in the second half of the table in the English championship are carefully monitoring his situation. The final sprint is launched, on the field and behind the scenes.
