Ligue 1: these African talents to watch for the 2026-2027 season

Several moves were made during the off-season. Several Ligue 1 clubs have strengthened their squads. For the 2026-2027 season, 4 African prospects could make an impression.

Patrick Zabi (Paris FC)

Aged 19, Patrick Zabi joined Paris FC this summer from Stade de Reims. Playing as a midfielder, he is already known for his ease in carrying the ball. Very skillful, the Yopougon native could cause damage in Ligue 1 this season. The capital club is counting heavily on its gem. That is also the reason why the club’s management bet 25 million euros on the Ivorian U23 international. The team will play its first Ligue 1 match against Troyes on Saturday, August 22 at the Stade de l'Aube.

Last season in Ligue 2 with Stade de Reims, Zabi played 34 games in all competitions, scoring 2 goals and providing 5 assists.

Gessime Yassine (Strasbourg)

Last January, Gessime Yassine made the move by joining Strasbourg after impressive performances at USL Dunkerque. The 20-year-old stands out from the rest with his explosive speed, instinctive dribbling, and excellent technical skill in tight spaces. These qualities allow him to destabilize opposing defenses. During his half-season at Strasbourg, he provided one assist in 19 appearances.

The Moroccan international right winger is tied to the Alsatians until June 2030.

Kelyann Bezahaf (Olympique de Marseille)

Aged 20, Kelyann Bezahaf signed with OM in the summer of 2025. Having mainly played with the reserve team, the Algerian right back could get his chance in Ligue 1 under coach Bruno Genesio. Having been heavily used during the pre-season games and having made a great impression, he has been promoted to the first team.

The Algerian U23 international is under contract with the Phocaeans until June 2028.

Hamidou Makalou (Stade Brestois)

Hamidou Makalou is about to begin his second season at Stade Brestois. The French club recruited him last summer from Guidars FC (Mali). Despite being only 20, the Bamako native stands out for his tremendous work rate in the midfield. Beyond that, the Malian player impresses with his incredible dynamism, refined technique, and speed of execution. Last season, he played 17 matches in Ligue 1.

The 20-year-old defensive midfielder is tied to Brest until June 30, 2029.