Foued Kadir, born on 5 December 1983 in Martigues, France, reached the international stage representing Algeria as an attacking midfielder. His path through professional football spanned multiple European leagues and major international tournaments, marking a transition from local youth ranks to competing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and various Africa Cup of Nations campaigns.
Early Career and Career Uncertainty
Kadir began his football development in the youth system of his hometown club, Martigues. At age 18, persistent difficulties led him to consider abandoning the sport to pursue a career as a police officer. Following his departure from Martigues, he played for amateur clubs AS Gignac and Stade Beaucairois before finding a place in the reserve team of Troyes. He eventually moved to Championnat National side Cannes, where he remained for three seasons starting in 2004.
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In June 2007, Kadir participated in a trial with Ligue 2 side Amiens, where he later made 67 appearances and scored 6 goals. His professional trajectory continued in July 2009 when he joined Valenciennes of Ligue 1, signing a two-year contract after a two-week training period. During his tenure at Valenciennes, which lasted until 2013, he recorded 82 appearances and 15 goals. He subsequently moved to Marseille in January 2013 for a €500,000 transfer fee on a three-and-a-half-year contract.
International Representation and Later Years
Kadir earned a spot on the Algeria national team, participating in the 2010 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2010 FIFA World Cup. His international debut occurred on 28 May 2010 against the Republic of Ireland. Over his career, he scored two goals in twenty-five games for Algeria. Later spells included loans to Rennes and Real Betis, followed by stints at Getafe and Alcorcón. By 2026, he continued playing for Istres FC while providing tactical analysis on Algerian football as a media pundit.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 December 1983, Martigues
- Citizenship: France and Algeria
- International goals: 2
- International caps: 25
- Martigues Honours: Championnat National (2023–24)
- Martigues Honours: Championnat National 2 (2021–22)
- Media role: 2026 FIFA World Cup pundit
- Current status: Active player as of 2026
Questions readers ask
Did Foued Kadir ever play in La Liga?
Yes, he played for Real Betis and signed an obligatory permanent contract with the club after its promotion to La Liga.
What position did Kadir play?
He played as an attacking midfielder.