Camel Meriem
Camel Meriem | |
|---|---|
| Born | October 18, 1979 Audincourt, France |
| Occupation | Professional footballer (retired) |
| Years active | 1998–2017 |
| Known for | Midfielder for clubs including Sochaux, Bordeaux, Marseille, Monaco, Aris, Arles-Avignon, OGC Nice, Apollon Limassol; capped by France national team |
Camel Meriem (born 18 October 1979) is a retired French professional football player who operated primarily as a midfielder. Throughout his career, he represented several clubs such as Sochaux, Bordeaux, Marseille, Monaco, Aris, Arles-Avignon, OGC Nice, and Apollon Limassol. On the international stage, he was capped by the French national team.
Club career
Originating from Audincourt in the Doubs department and born to Algerian heritage, Meriem launched his professional journey at Sochaux. Over a span of five years, he took part in 82 matches and netted eight goals.
In January 2002, Meriem transferred to Bordeaux, where he played a role in securing the 2002 Coupe de la Ligue title. During his three-year stint, he accumulated 82 appearances and scored eight times. The 2003–04 season saw him on loan at Marseille, where he featured in the 2004 UEFA Cup Final.
Following his return to Bordeaux, Meriem moved to Monaco in August 2005. Across four seasons with Monaco, he appeared in 110 games and scored eight goals before being released in the summer of 2009. Afterward, as a free agent, he trialed with Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers but was unable to finalize a contract due to injury issues.
On 5 February 2010, Meriem inked a one-and-a-half-year deal with Greek side Aris but parted ways with the club by June that same year. Subsequently, in August 2010, he signed for newly promoted Ligue 1 club Arles-Avignon on a one-year contract. After departing Arles-Avignon on a free transfer in June 2011, he joined OGC Nice, where he stayed until his release in 2013.
At age 33, Meriem agreed to a one-plus-one-year contract with Cypriot outfit Apollon Limassol. During his two seasons there, the team secured third place finishes and qualified for the Europa League group stages in consecutive years.
In January 2017, Meriem returned to AS Monaco by joining their third team competing in France’s seventh division.
International career
Meriem made his international debut for the France national team on 17 November 2004 during a goalless draw against Poland.
Style of play
Recognized as a creative midfielder, Meriem was distinguished by his exceptional vision and accurate distribution.
Personal life
His brother, Samir Meriem, plays as a midfielder for FC Tournai.
Honours
Sochaux
- Division 2: 2000–01
Bordeaux
- Coupe de la Ligue: 2001–02