Alexis Beka Beka returns to football after mental health battle, signs for Caen

The French midfielder had been without a club since his contract with OGC Nice was terminated last summer, and he has not played since September 2023.

At that time, Beka Beka was going through a severe mental health crisis that nearly ended in tragedy. On September 29, 2023, he attempted to take his own life by jumping from the Magnan viaduct. Emergency services intervened, and after hours of talks, he decided to step back. Since then, he has been focusing on rebuilding his life, both personally and professionally.

Now, he is ready for a fresh start with Caen, a club owned by Kylian Mbappe and one that has a past connection to Slovenian midfielder Jan Repas, who played there between 2017 and 2020.

Caen also made another major announcement, appointing Michel Der Zakarian as the new head coach of the first team. The 62-year-old will look to guide the club forward as Beka Beka works to regain match fitness and confidence.

Alexis Beka Beka has joined the reserve side of SM Caen — he will now play in National 3 in France's 5th division.

Caen was where he originally broke onto the scene before his move to Lokomotiv and then OGC Nice.

Best of luck to him as he resumes his career! pic.twitter.com/AoEpl6BBKl

— Charles Erb — TheSoccerGoal.com (@The_Soccer_Goal) February 21, 2025