Rayan Cherki, the talented 21-year-old attacking midfielder for Olympique Lyonnais, is reportedly leaning towards representing Algeria rather than France on the international stage.
This revelation has sparked significant discussion about the player’s future, following remarks by respected sports journalist Margot Dummont during Sunday’s edition of Canal Football Club.
Cherki, who has represented France at youth levels from U16 to U23, including participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, is eligible to play for three nations: France, Algeria, and Italy.
However, according to Dummont, his preference appears to be clear. “If he had to choose, it would be Algeria,” she stated, adding that his decision is largely influenced by his desire to please his mother.
The journalist also highlighted the ongoing efforts by Olympique Lyonnais to sway Cherki’s decision, pointing to previous instances with other players like Houssem Aouar and Nabil Fekir, who were also subjects of similar lobbying from their club.
Despite his strong ties with French football, Cherki may not be swayed by these pressures, with Dummont noting that he would likely see a different market value if he were to represent France instead of Algeria.
While his potential international future remains up in the air, Cherki’s club form has been exceptional this season.
He has emerged as one of the standout performers for OL, contributing five goals and seven assists.
His growing confidence on the field has only increased his value, and his style of play would undoubtedly be an asset to the Algerian national team, particularly as they undergo a period of offensive transition.
The French Football Federation (FFF) is likely to continue pushing for Cherki’s inclusion in their senior squad, given his strong performances for Lyon.
Meanwhile, Italy, his other country of origin, has not ruled out the possibility of inviting the promising young talent to join their ranks.
However, if Dummont’s sources are correct, Algeria may soon have a new star to bolster their attacking options.
With all eyes on Cherki’s decision, the football world eagerly awaits confirmation of his international allegiance, which could have significant implications for both his career and the national teams involved.
Rayan Cherki Set to Choose Algeria Over France, Says Journalist
Rayan Cherki, the talented 21-year-old attacking midfielder for Olympique Lyonnais, is reportedly leaning towards representing Algeria rather than France on the international stage.
This revelation has sparked significant discussion about the player’s future, following remarks by respected sports journalist Margot Dummont during Sunday’s edition of Canal Football Club.
Cherki, who has represented France at youth levels from U16 to U23, including participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, is eligible to play for three nations: France, Algeria, and Italy.
However, according to Dummont, his preference appears to be clear. “If he had to choose, it would be Algeria,” she stated, adding that his decision is largely influenced by his desire to please his mother.
The journalist also highlighted the ongoing efforts by Olympique Lyonnais to sway Cherki’s decision, pointing to previous instances with other players like Houssem Aouar and Nabil Fekir, who were also subjects of similar lobbying from their club.
Despite his strong ties with French football, Cherki may not be swayed by these pressures, with Dummont noting that he would likely see a different market value if he were to represent France instead of Algeria.
While his potential international future remains up in the air, Cherki’s club form has been exceptional this season. He has emerged as one of the standout performers for OL, contributing five goals and seven assists.
His growing confidence on the field has only increased his value, and his style of play would undoubtedly be an asset to the Algerian national team, particularly as they undergo a period of offensive transition.
The French Football Federation (FFF) is likely to continue pushing for Cherki’s inclusion in their senior squad, given his strong performances for Lyon.
Meanwhile, Italy, his other country of origin, has not ruled out the possibility of inviting the promising young talent to join their ranks.
However, if Dummont’s sources are correct, Algeria may soon have a new star to bolster their attacking options.
With all eyes on Cherki’s decision, the football world eagerly awaits confirmation of his international allegiance, which could have significant implications for both his career and the national teams involved.
Selon Canal +, Si Cherki devrait faire son choix aujourd’hui , ce serait l’Algérie 🇩🇿@canalplus pic.twitter.com/Xf1x81RWsW
— La Vague Verte ⭐️🇩🇿⭐️ (@la_vagueverte) December 15, 2024
