Quick Facts
Biography
Mourad Benhamida (born 18 January 1986 in Villeurbanne, Rhône) is a French footballer.
Career
He was trained in the youth sections and player development program of Olympique Lyon.
Olympique Lyon
Benhamida was known for his prowess in the ranks of the Olympique Lyon's junior amateur team, playing in the CFA 2 that he captained. In April 2006, Olympique Lyonnais' president Jean-Michel Aulas announced that Benhamida would sign a one-year professional contract with the club alongside fellow young hope and France U-18 international Grégory Bettiol. Both helped their team win the second division Amateur Championship to get promoted in the CFA.
He is considered part of the young generation of promising players formed by Olympique Lyonnais who were signed by the club (sometimes before being sold to other outfits) like: Jérémy Berthod, Karim Benzema, Hatem Ben Arfa, Bryan Bergougnoux, Grégory Bettiol, and Jérémy Clément.
Montpellier HSC
Benhamida, after receiving little playing time with Lyon, transferred to Montpellier HSC on a Bosman transfer. He made his debut as a late match substitute in Montpellier 3–1 win over FC Libourne. He scored his first goal on 17 August 2007 against Troyes AC in Montpellier's 3–0 victory.
Honours
- 2006 : Champion de France des réserves
- 2005 : Finalist of the Coupe Gambardella
- 2005 : Champion de France 18 ans