“He’s a unique player” - Beaumelle pays a heartfelt tribute to Belaïli!

French coach Patrice Beaumelle showered praises on his former Algerian protégé Youcef Belaïli, sending a clear message to his fellow coaches: to get the best out of the Algerian international, one must know how to adapt to him.

Currently leading the Qatari club Umm Salal, Beaumelle revealed in an interview with the French site So Foot that he sent a message to the current Espérance Sportive de Tunis player on the occasion of Eid. He wrote to him saying he missed him and that he was a player who had deeply impacted him, due to his many qualities recognized by all who know and appreciate him.

“Belaïli is unique” – Beaumelle under the spell of his former gem!

Beaumelle stated: “Belaïli is a player who deserves to be better known in the football world. As a coach, he has always impressed me. I never had a problem with him, provided I understood the player and his motivations.”

And he added: “I think you can’t train all players the same way. Ronaldinho, for example, didn’t train like the others. Some players, like Neymar, require special treatment. Again, I believe you have to create an environment that allows players who can make a difference to thrive in the best conditions.”

The French coach continued:
“Youcef is a player whose philosophy is based on instinct, duels, and the love of challenge. He has a winning mentality and deeply loves football.”

And he concluded:
“Belaïli gives his best when he feels valued. If too many constraints are imposed on him, he no longer enjoys playing and will not be at his best. Conversely, when he feels confident and free, he is simply exceptional.”

To recall, the former MC Alger player had a remarkable season under Beaumelle’s guidance: he won the Algerian championship last season, finished as the league's top scorer (tied with Ismaïl Belkacemi, former USM Alger player), and was also crowned the best assist provider.

Also read: At 36, Islam Slimani still dreams of the Greens!

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.