Valencia snap up France U20 captain Mayssam Benama in shrewd move
Valencia CF continue their youth recruitment drive with the signing of French U20 captain Mayssam Benama from FC Annecy, with the midfielder penning a deal until 2028.
Valencia bolster their ranks with promising French youth international as they look to secure future talent.
Valencia CF have continued their policy of recruiting young talent with the signing of Mayssam Benama from FC Annecy. The 20-year-old midfielder, who captained France at the 2025 U20 World Cup in Chile where they finished fourth, has put pen to paper on a contract running until 2028.
From Monaco to Mestalla
Benama, who is of Algerian descent, developed in AS Monaco’s youth system before his move to Annecy. His international pedigree is impressive, having progressed through various French youth teams before earning the captain’s armband for the U20 side.
First team ambitions
While officially joining Valencia Mestalla (the club’s B team), the plan seems crystal clear. The club’s brass have their mince pies firmly on Benama’s development trajectory, with:
- Immediate integration into first-team training sessions
- Availability for manager Corberán when needed
- A clear pathway to senior football
Third winter signing
Benama becomes the third winter window addition to the Mestalla squad, as Valencia look to strengthen their reserves after a difficult start to the campaign. The B team’s struggles have mirrored those of the first team, but this signing represents a proper boost for coach Angulo heading into the second half of the season.
The midfielder’s arrival follows Valencia’s established strategy of identifying young talents with potential for first-team breakthrough, providing the squad depth that’s been in short supply at the Mestalla.