Adel Chedli
Adel Chedli | |
|---|---|
| Born | September 16, 1976 La Ricamarie, Loire, France |
| Occupation | Professional footballer (retired) |
| Years active | 1996–2006 |
| Known for | Midfielder for Tunisia national team; winner of 2004 African Nations Cup |
Adel Ben-Bechir Chedli (, born 16 September 1976) is a retired professional football player who operated primarily as a midfielder. Although born in France, he chose to represent Tunisia at the international level.
Club career
Originating from La Ricamarie, Loire, France, Chedli launched his professional journey with AS Saint-Étienne, breaking into their senior squad in 1996. The following year, he moved to FC Sochaux, where he competed in Ligue 1 and earned his initial cap for Tunisia. Prior to his stint in Germany, he spent time at FC Istres, making 88 appearances before departing on a free transfer after the team's relegation to Ligue 2.
During his spell at 1. FC Nürnberg, Chedli found it challenging to become a regular starter, featuring in just six Bundesliga matches and occasionally playing for the reserve side. His time there was marred by disciplinary challenges, including two red cards—one with the second team and another during a friendly against the Kansas City Wizards. The latter incident, which involved a dispute with coach Hans Meyer, sparked media rumors about an early contract termination. This culminated in July 2006 when both parties mutually agreed to end his contract, initially scheduled to last until 2007.
International career
Having represented France at youth levels, Chedli made his senior debut for Tunisia on 26 May 1996 in a friendly match facing Senegal. Due to restrictions on switching national teams prior to the 2000s, he resumed playing for Tunisia in 2003 and established himself as a key player, helping secure the 2004 African Nations Cup title. He also competed in the 2005 FIFA Confederations Cup and was selected for Tunisia's squad at the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
Honours
Tunisia
- Africa Cup of Nations: 2004