Rayan Cherki’s omission from Didier Deschamps’ most recent France squad has reignited speculation over whether the Lyon starlet will reconsider his international future and opt to represent Algeria.
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder, long touted as one of the most gifted players of his generation, was once again left out as France unveiled its latest squad for the UEFA Nations League.
Despite a standout season in Ligue 1, Cherki’s name was absent—prompting fresh debate over how long he can wait for a senior call-up from Les Bleus.
Cherki remains eligible to play for Algeria, thanks to FIFA rules which allow players to switch national allegiance provided they haven’t featured in a senior competitive match.
The OL playmaker, who has represented France at youth levels, has not yet made his debut in an official match with the senior national team, leaving the door wide open for a change—one that other Franco-Algerians such as Houssem Aouar and Amine Gouiri have taken in recent years.
Algeria’s head coach Vladimir Petkovic has made no secret of his admiration for Cherki.
Sources close to the Algerian federation suggest that overtures have already been made and that the player remains firmly on their radar.
The national team is believed to view him as a future centrepiece in their ongoing rebuild.
Until now, Cherki has remained committed to France, working his way through the youth system and frequently being cited as a future international star.
But with each passing selection window, the patience required grows longer—and potentially more costly.
Statistically, Cherki’s campaign in Ligue 1 has been nothing short of remarkable.
He ranks among the league’s best dribblers, top assist providers, and was recently included in the domestic team of the season.
In terms of performance, his case is difficult to ignore, raising questions about whether loyalty to France is costing him a flourishing international career.
History offers a mix of outcomes. While some, like Nabil Fekir and Karim Benzema, remained with France and found success, others have embraced their roots with Algeria and become pivotal figures.
Cherki stands at a similar crossroads—torn between a dream that may never materialise and an opportunity that could define his international career.
For now, his silence fuels the speculation. But with the Fennecs calling and Les Bleus continuing to look elsewhere, the decision may soon be his to make.
