Saïd Benrahma is an Algerian professional footballer who primarily operates as a left winger. He is best known for his impactful stint in the English Championship with Brentford and his subsequent success with West Ham United, including scoring in the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League final. He has represented Algeria internationally since 2015.
Mohamed Saïd Benrahma, born on 10 August 1995 in Aïn Témouchent, Algeria, is a professional footballer who operates primarily as a left winger. With citizenship in both France and Algeria, he has navigated a diverse career across European leagues before transitioning to the Saudi Pro League, establishing himself as a versatile attacking presence in multiple professional environments.
Early Career and French Football
Benrahma began his youth development with NRB Bethioua before relocating to France. He joined Nice in 2013, making his professional debut under Claude Puel. His time at Nice was defined by extensive loan periods at Angers, Gazélec, and Châteauroux. Between 2013 and 2016, he primarily represented the Nice reserve team, recording 37 appearances and 11 goals. He departed Nice in 2018 with 18 first-team appearances and three goals.
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In July 2018, Benrahma signed a four-year contract with Brentford for an estimated £2.7 million. His impact was immediate; he scored 27 goals across 83 appearances for the West London club. During the 2019–20 season, his performance earned him the Brentford Supporters' Player of the Year award and inclusion in the PFA Championship Team of the Year. He helped lead the team to the 2020 Championship play-off final.
Success with West Ham United
Benrahma initially joined West Ham United on loan in October 2020, with a permanent transfer following in January 2021 for £25 million plus add-ons. He became a significant attacking outlet, notably scoring the opening penalty in the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League final victory against Fiorentina. In November 2022, he recorded the most powerful Premier League goal of that season, reaching an average speed of 107.17 kilometres per hour.
Transfer to Lyon and Saudi Arabia
In February 2024, after a protracted transfer process involving FIFA intervention, Benrahma moved to Lyon on an initial loan before a permanent deal was finalized in June 2024 for €14 million. By January 2025, he moved to Saudi club Neom SC on loan, later completing a permanent transfer in April 2025 following the team's promotion to the Saudi Pro League.
Fast facts
- Born: 10 August 1995
- Birthplace: Aïn Témouchent, Algeria
- Primary Position: Left Winger
- Professional Debut: 2013–14 season
- West Ham Permanent Fee: £25 million
- International Debut: 13 October 2015
- Lyon Permanent Transfer: June 2024
- Current Club: Neom SC
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Saïd Benrahma play for in England?
He played for Brentford and West Ham United.
What was the result of the 2023 UEFA Europa Conference League final for Benrahma?
He scored the opening penalty goal in a 2–1 victory for West Ham United.
