Madjid Bougherra, born in Dijon in 1982, established a professional career spanning multiple countries before transitioning into coaching. Initially rising through the ranks in the French league system with Gueugnon, he became a fixture in European football, notably securing three consecutive Scottish Premier League titles with Rangers between 2008 and 2011 while earning 70 international caps.
Early Career and English Football
Bougherra began at AS Quetigny in 1999 before joining Gueugnon in July 2002. By January 2006, he moved to England on loan with Crewe Alexandra. His agent, Charles Collymore, received a £5,000 fee for the deal. Despite relegation, Bougherra made an impact, prompting a move to Sheffield Wednesday in May 2006. He made his debut on 5 August and earned the club's Player of the Month award shortly after. In January 2007, he moved to Charlton Athletic for a £2.5 million fee.
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Signing for Rangers in July 2008 for £2.5 million, Bougherra played 113 times for the club. He formed a defensive partnership with David Weir and won the Scottish Cup in his debut season. His performance in the 2009–10 UEFA Champions League against VfB Stuttgart earned him acclaim, and he secured the PFA Scotland goal of the season in 2010. His tenure ended in August 2011 following a red card against Malmö FF.
Transition to Coaching
He pivoted to management in 2017 with Al Duhail's under-23 team. He later managed Fujairah and the Algeria A' national team, leading them to the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup. He briefly coached Al-Markhiya in 2023 and managed the Lebanon national team, before finishing a return stint with Algeria A' in 2025.
Fast facts
- Born: 7 October 1982, Dijon
- Professional debut: 2002
- International caps: 70
- Citizenship: French and Algerian
- Main playing position: Centre-back
- Rangers transfer fee: £2.5 million
- Religion: Islam
Questions readers ask
Which major trophies did Bougherra win at Rangers?
He won the Scottish Premier League championship in the 2008–09, 2009–10, and 2010–11 seasons, as well as the Scottish Cup.
What was his involvement in the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup?
He served as the head coach for the Algeria A' national team, helping them lift the trophy.
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