Algerian national team coach, Djamel Belmadi, is set to unveil a squad of 27 players for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, spanning from January 13th to February 11th.
The inclusion of AS Roma’s Houssem Aouar remains uncertain due to an ongoing injury concern.
In this context, “Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed” obtained information on Thursday from a source within the Algerian coaching staff, indicating that Belmadi continues to monitor Aouar’s condition before finalizing the squad.
However, in case Aouar is unable to join, the Algerian coach has identified a replacement in Angers SCO’s midfielder, Haimad Abdli.
The same information reveals that Belmadi has communicated with Haimad Abdli, expressing his desire to enlist his services should Aouar be unavailable due to the persisting injury.
Aouar suffered a muscular injury during a Europa League match against Sheriff Tiraspol on December 14th.
Italian media later suggested his return to action on December 30th, where AS Roma faces Juventus.
Houssem Aouar, aged 25, has played five matches for the Algerian national team, starting in two matches and scoring two goals in a friendly against Cape Verde in October.
Despite his contributions to the national squad, his uncertain situation at Roma has led to speculations about a potential loan move during the winter transfer window, only six months after joining the team under Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho.
Belmadi, reflecting on the challenging scenario, acknowledges the pressure on Aouar and the need to carefully manage the situation.
The coach aims to finalize the squad with the best possible options for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, maintaining a delicate balance between current form and potential future developments.
As Algeria gears up for the continental competition, the suspense around Aouar’s fitness adds an extra layer of anticipation to the squad announcement, with fans eagerly awaiting the final list that will represent the nation in the prestigious tournament.
