The summer transfer window in Tunisia concluded on September 20, with a total of 170 transactions recorded across the 16 Ligue 1 teams. This figure reflects a cautious approach by clubs, largely due to financial constraints and the scarcity of top talent available on the market. The window was marked by a mix of experienced players and young prospects joining various teams.
One of the notable transfers was the acquisition of Nigerian striker Kingsley Eduwo by Etoile Sportive du Sahel. Eduwo, born on June 19, 1990, brings a wealth of experience to the team, having played for several top clubs in Tunisia, including EST, CA, ESS, and CSS. He is the only foreign player to have represented all four major Tunisian clubs.
Eduwo's transfer is significant, given his impressive resume, which includes a Tunisian Championship in 2022 with EST and a Tunisian Cup in 2021 with CSS. Throughout his career, he has played in various countries, including Algeria, the UAE, Kuwait, Egypt, Iraq, and Jordan. Eduwo has also earned two caps for the Super Eagles, scoring one goal in 2017.
The transfer window saw several clubs actively engaging in the market, with ESS and USBG leading the way in terms of foreign player recruitment, each signing six players. On the other hand, USM, JSO, and ESM were more conservative, acquiring only one foreign player each. CAB was the least active club, completing only six transactions.
In terms of youth development, ASM and ESM stood out by signing five players under the age of 21. Meanwhile, ten Tunisian players returned to the country after gaining experience abroad. The transfer activity also highlighted the rebuilding efforts of several top clubs, including Club Africain, Espérance de Tunis, and Etoile du Sahel.
Club Africain, the reigning champions, underwent significant changes, releasing several players and acquiring new talent, including Yassine Meriah and Mootez Zaddem. Espérance de Tunis was particularly active, signing several high-profile players, such as Montasser Essid, Hazem Mastouri, and Youcef Belaïli, while retaining the services of their Algerian playmaker.
Etoile du Sahel, under the guidance of French coach Christian Bracconi, also made significant signings, including Kingsley Eduwo and Azmi Ghouma, as they continue to rebuild their team. Other clubs, such as Club Sportif Sfaxien and Stade Tunisien, also made notable acquisitions, including Fakhreddine Ben Youssef and Malek Chouikh.
Key points
- A total of 170 transactions were recorded across the 16 Ligue 1 teams during the summer transfer window.
- Etoile Sportive du Sahel signed Nigerian striker Kingsley Eduwo, who has played for all four major Tunisian clubs.
- Several clubs, including ASM and ESM, prioritized youth development by signing players under the age of 21.
