Elies Al-Ashouri joins San Diego Loyal after Tunisia's five straight losses
Elies Al-Ashouri has signed for US club San Diego Loyal from Danish side FC Copenhagen. The move comes just days after Tunisia suffered their fifth straight defeat, losing 1-3 to the Netherlands on June 25, 2026. Tyler Heaps, San Diego’s sporting director, said: "We’re excited to welcome Elies to the club. He’s got vast experience competing at the highest levels."
What happened in Al-Ashouri’s transfer?
San Diego announced the three-year deal through 2029 via its official website. The club will unveil Al-Ashouri to fans on Sunday at Snapdragon Stadium before their match against FC Dallas. Heaps added the club is committed to integrating the player quickly and building a competitive roster.
Al-Ashouri, 26, is a dual-national for Tunisia. Born in Saint-Denis, France, he trained in the academies of Olympique Lyonnais and Saint-Étienne. He has 33 caps for Tunisia, scoring four goals, and played every minute of the team’s first-round World Cup matches in the US, Canada and Mexico in 2026.
Why this move matters for Tunisia
The transfer lands as Tunisia has lost its last five games. Still, it gives Al-Ashouri a fresh stage outside Europe in a league on the rise. Heaps said: "We’re confident he’ll be a strong addition given his European and international experience."
Al-Ashouri was part of Tunisia’s 2026 World Cup squad and featured in all three first-round games. His temporary absence from the national team could affect the coach’s short-term plans.
What’s next for Al-Ashouri in the US
He will make his San Diego debut on Sunday against Dallas. The club expects him to slot into midfield quickly thanks to his top-level experience. Heaps said: "We look forward to seeing his impact right away as we build a competitive team."
The move fits San Diego’s push to add experienced players after a string of disappointing results this season. His official unveiling is set for Sunday ahead of kickoff.
Quick look at Tunisia in 2026
Tunisia has lost five straight, capped by a 1-3 loss to the Netherlands on June 25, 2026. Ahmed Arous and Mohamed Neffati remain sidelined with injuries. The team remains in the 2026 World Cup race and will look to turn things around in upcoming qualifiers.
