Defender Zineddine Belaid returns to Algeria with JS Kabylie

Former USM Alger captain Zineddine Belaïd is back in Algerian football after a brief adventure in Belgium with JS Kabylie announcing the arrival of the central defender over the weekend.

 

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The signing is a coup for JSK who have big ambitions this season. After sneaking into a second place finish in Algeria’s Ligue 1 Professionnelle on the final matchday last season, the club from Tizi Ouzou have captured a true leader and defensive anchor ahead of their league and CAF Champions League campaigns.

Belaïd arrives at his new club after JSK reportedly parted ways with €750,000 to acquire the services of the 26-year-old from Belgian top flight club Sint-Truiden.

The vocal defender had a difficult time in Belgium. Difficulties with adjusting to the language barrier and life in Europe were only made worse after the passing of Belaïd’s father during the 2024-25 season. After making twelve appearances for the club, he made his final appearance in mid-February before spending time back home.

After being linked with moves to the Gulf region as well as Egypt’s Zamalek, Belaïd has decided to return home with JSK. The Canaries begin their new Ligue 1 season next weekend on Saturday against newly promoted US Ben Aknoun. Their continental campaign begins in late September with a CAF Champions League preliminary stage clash against Ghanaian champions Bibiani GoldStars.

Belaïd began his career at NA Hussein Dey before moving to USM Alger ahead of the 2020-21 season, where he made 137 appearances with 15 goals and 10 assists in all competitions. He was an important member of the USMA team that won the 2022-23 CAF Confederation Cup and the 2023 CAF Super Cup. He is also an Algerian international who played every match at the 2022 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as hosts Algeria finished runner-up.