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Hassan YebdaFrench-Algerian footballer, midfielder
Date of Birth: 14.05.0984
Country:  France |
Content:
- Hassan Yebda: From French Youth to Algerian International
- Professional Debut with Auxerre
- Breaking Through at Le Mans
- Success with Benfica
- Loan Spells to England and Italy
- International Career
- Later Career
Hassan Yebda: From French Youth to Algerian International
Early Life and Youth CareerHassan Yebda, a Franco-Algerian footballer, was born into a Kabyle family in France. His passion for football began in the streets of Alfortville, where he honed his skills at a young age. At the age of 14, he joined the youth academy of AJ Auxerre.
Professional Debut with Auxerre
Yebda was promoted to Auxerre's first team at the age of 17, but struggled to break into the starting lineup. He spent most of his time playing for their reserve team in the French amateur league. In January 2006, he was loaned out to Laval.
Breaking Through at Le Mans
After his loan spell at Laval, Yebda returned to Auxerre but his contract was terminated in 2007. He then signed an 18-month deal with Le Mans. He made his debut in February 2007 but was initially relegated to the reserve team. However, he eventually earned a regular spot in the main squad after a strong performance in the Coupe de France match against Lyon.
Success with Benfica
In May 2008, Yebda joined Benfica on a free transfer. He quickly became a key player in their midfield, earning Player of the Month honors in the Portuguese league in September. He scored his first goal for the club in February 2009, helping them draw against FC Porto.
Loan Spells to England and Italy
In September 2009, Yebda was loaned to Portsmouth in England. He made an immediate impact, scoring his first goal for the club against Wolverhampton Wanderers. He played 20 games overall and helped Portsmouth reach the FA Cup final. After the season, he returned to Benfica but was loaned out to Napoli in Italy for a year.
International Career
Yebda represented France at various youth levels, winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2001. In 2009, he was approached by the Algerian national team and agreed to switch his international allegiance. He debuted for Algeria in 2009 and played in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2010 FIFA World Cup, receiving two yellow cards in the latter tournament.
Later Career
After leaving Napoli, Yebda signed for Granada in Spain in 2011. He played for several more years in Europe, including stints with Al-Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates and Boavista in Portugal. He retired from professional football in 2019.
