Abdennour Chérif El-Ouazzani
Si-Abdennour Chérif El-Ouazzani | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 18, 1986 Oran, Algeria |
| Occupation | Professional footballer |
| Years active | 2004–present |
| Known for | Playing for MC Oran, JS Kabylie, and CA Bordj Bou Arréridj |
Si-Abdennour Chérif El-Ouazzani (born 18 March 1986) is an Algerian professional footballer who currently represents CA Bordj Bou Arréridj in the Algerian Ligue Professionnelle 2.
MC Oran
Chérif El-Ouazzani initiated his football journey at MC Oran, where his coach was his elder brother, former Algerian international Tahar Chérif El-Ouazzani, whom he regards as his favorite player. At the age of 18, he made his first senior appearance as a substitute in a 1–0 victory against USM Alger in the Algerian Cup. During the January 2009 transfer period, reigning Algerian First Division champions JS Kabylie aimed to acquire him; however, MC Oran declined to release him, considering him crucial for their promotion efforts. His collaboration with Abdelmadjid Benatia in the defensive midfield role played a key part in MC Oran securing promotion to the top tier in the 2008–09 season.
JS Kabylie
Following MC Oran's promotion, Chérif El-Ouazzani transferred to JS Kabylie, who had finished as runners-up in the 2008–09 First Division, signing a two-year deal for a total amount of 7.5 million DA (£63,000), which included a cash portion of 4.5 million DA (£38,000). Despite receiving multiple proposals, he opted for JS Kabylie due to its prestige, prospects for winning trophies, participation in the CAF Champions League, and potential career growth. He made his debut in the opening fixture of the season, completing the full match in a 1–0 defeat to CA Bordj Bou Arreridj.
Personal life
Chérif El-Ouazzani is one of nine siblings, having seven brothers and two sisters. In 2009, he revealed plans to pursue a career as a physical trainer after retiring from professional football and enjoys fishing alongside his brothers during leisure time.