Nice Signs Axel Witsel on One-Year Deal

French club Nice has officially signed experienced Belgian midfielder Axel Witsel after he passed his medical tests, making him a new addition to the squad for the upcoming season.

Axel Witsel, 37, has signed a one-year contract with Nice, with an option to extend for another season, in a free transfer deal. The Belgian international brings a wealth of experience at the highest levels, having played 140 international matches for Belgium, and was a key figure in the 'Golden Generation' that reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup.

Witsel stated upon joining Nice: "It is a great honor to join Nice. I have always followed the club, and there were contacts between us a few years ago. Once the officials and the coach spoke to me, I felt that I would come here. I am in good physical shape and still mentally fresh. I come with great humility and a desire to help the team achieve a great season and bring the club back to the place it deserves."

Witsel had a full season with Girona in Spain, participating in 32 matches, before representing Belgium in the World Cup, playing in the Round of 16 against the United States and the quarter-finals against Spain.

Throughout his long career, Witsel has played for Standard Liège, Benfica, Zenit Saint Petersburg, Tianjin Quanjian, Borussia Dortmund, and Atlético Madrid, alongside Girona.

Morris Cohen stated: "We are extremely happy to welcome Axel. He is a great player, possessing many qualities and a champion's mentality. Most importantly, he quickly showed his desire to join us despite other offers. He will be one of the team leaders, and we wish him a warm welcome."

Roger Ricourt, the sporting director of Nice, stated: "Everyone knows his abilities. He has an incredible career, having participated in four World Cups in 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026, and he is still capable of competing. Axel is a versatile player who has played extensively in the backline. He possesses strength, ball-winning ability, and good vision of the pitch."

He concluded: "We rely on him on the pitch, as well as in the locker room, and we expect him to share his experiences with the young players and help lead the group forward."