ES Setif (Entente Sportive Setifienne) has finalized the acquisition of Jordanian international forward Yousef Abu Jalboush on a two-season deal from Jordanian side Al-Hussein Irbid.
Alongside additional summer arrivals, this signing injects fresh energy into the squad, potentially serving as the key to ending the club’s trophy drought that stretches back to 2017. Navigating the upcoming campaign presents a clear challenge, given that several rivals have already declared their title ambitions. Nevertheless, in Ain El Fouara, while a segment of the fanbase remains cautious about squad quality, most supporters believe the team can actively compete against title contenders like MCA, CRB, USMA, and MCO.
The club’s official channel announced the addition of the 28-year-old midfielder from Amman—a city dominated by Al-Faisaly, where he developed from youth ranks to senior football before spells at Kazma and Al-Hussein. Entering the summer as a free agent, negotiations with his representative concluded swiftly. The signing provides crucial depth requested by the Egyptian manager during their Istanbul training camp. Nicknamed “Sissa”—a nod to his father, “Abu Sissa”—the player brings dynamic qualities to Setif’s midfield, specializing in a hybrid attacking role.
Squad Shows Steady Progress
ES Setif secured its second consecutive pre-season victory at Izmit Stadium in Istanbul, defeating Muharraq SC 1-0. Following a 0-0 draw against Muaither SC and a 2-1 win over Bulvarspor Kulubu, Kamel Hamidi and his teammates delivered a strong performance. Structurally sound and quick into their rhythm, the Black and White took early control. Attacking bursts from Belkhir alongside active play from Hamek and Boumechra created multiple opportunities, culminated by Bouchakoura’s first-half goal in his first pre-season start.
The tempo moderated after the break amid tactical substitutions from both managers, though both sides continued to generate chances. ESS maintained its advantage through the final whistle, demonstrating clear tactical growth. Manager Hamada Sadki expressed satisfaction with the development while emphasizing the need for minor adjustments in team cohesion and positional coordination before the league kickoff.
Muharraq SC head coach Aissa Saidoune offered high praise following the fixture: “Maghreb teams are notoriously challenging opponents. Setif presented significant problems for us, particularly during the opening half, demonstrating solid technical, tactical, and physical preparation.”
For this third friendly in Turkey, Sadki retained most of the lineup from the Bulvarspor fixture, making a single change by starting Bouchakoura over Zerrouki. Saidi held his position in goal behind a defensive line of Hamidi, Khemaissia, Al-Hourani, and Omfia. Salifu, Tabti, Hamek, Belkhir, and Boumechra anchored the midfield, supporting Bouchakoura up front. ES Setif is currently arranging a potential fourth warm-up match in Istanbul.