JS Kabylie lets Merbah seek new club while keeping contract intact

JS Kabylie (JSK) faces a split view: goalkeeper Gaya Merbah has been granted permission to look for a new club, yet the club stresses that his contract remains fully in force and any move will require its agreement.

The situation of Gaya Merbah at JS Kabylie has fueled discussion for several days, prompting the Kabyle direction to break its silence on Monday 17 August 2026 with an official communiqué.

According to JSK, Merbah (Il) voiced his desire to leave the club at the end of the previous season, only to retract that wish during the start of summer training. The board acknowledged his decision and authorised his representative to explore a new destination and study possible transfer options.

Contract remains in force

Crucially, the club clarified that Merbah has not been released; his contract with JS Kabylie is still fully valid. JSK insists there is no termination, free release or abandonment of club rights, meaning any interested team must reach an agreement with the club.

JS Kabylie also announced reinforcement of the goalkeeper position with the arrival of new talent such as Alexis Guendouz, a move intended to boost competition and build a squad capable of meeting the season’s ambitions.

The club reminded that no player enjoys a guarantee of a starting spot; selection rests solely with the technical staff, based on work, performance and collective interest.

Through this clarification, JS Kabylie aims to regain control of the case. Merbah remains under contract but now has the green light to explore options, with his future depending on potential offers and an agreement with the direction.

The communiqué concluded firmly, stating that the institution stands above individual wishes and will retain mastery of the matter until its eventual resolution.