Saphir Taïder launched his professional career at Grenoble on 15 May 2010, appearing in a league match against Marseille. Born in Castres on 29 February 1992, the midfielder transitioned through European leagues before securing a designated player contract in Major League Soccer. He holds dual citizenship in France and Algeria, representing both nations during his athletic development.
European Development
After Grenoble faced financial relegation in 2011, Taïder moved to Italy to join Bologna. He debuted in Serie A that December. Juventus briefly acquired a co-ownership stake in early 2012, though he remained at Bologna. By 2013, he signed a four-year contract with Internazionale for a transfer fee of 5.5 million euros. His tenure in Milan included 25 Serie A appearances and a goal against Sassuolo. Following subsequent loan spells at Southampton and Sassuolo, he returned to Bologna in 2015, eventually making over 170 appearances in Italian top-flight football.
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Taïder participated in youth-level football for France before committing to the Algeria national team. He scored in his senior debut against Benin on 26 March 2013. His international record includes competing in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he played against Belgium and Germany. In 2015, he was part of the squad that reached the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals in Equatorial Guinea.
North American and Later Career
In January 2018, Taïder joined the Montreal Impact as a designated player. Over two seasons, he established a presence in midfield, scoring his first league goal against Atlanta United FC in April 2018. He helped the team win the 2019 Canadian Championship. Following his departure from Major League Soccer in 2020, he moved to Al-Ain in the Saudi Professional League and later signed with Gulf United in 2024.
Fast facts
- Born: 29 February 1992, Castres
- Citizenship: France and Algeria
- Professional debut: 15 May 2010
- Serie A appearances: 172
- International debut: 26 March 2013
- Honours: 2019 Canadian Championship winner
- Position: Central midfielder
Questions readers ask
Which national team did Saphir Taïder represent?
He played for France at the youth international level and senior Algeria national team.
Did Taïder play in the Premier League?
He signed for Southampton on loan in August 2014 but the agreement was terminated on 1 September 2014 after one friendly match appearance.
