Nabil Bentaleb has made a heartfelt return to the Algeria national team, nearly a year after a life-threatening cardiac incident brought his career to a halt.
The 29-year-old midfielder, who plays for Lille in Ligue 1, is part of Vladimir Petkovic’s squad for the upcoming friendlies against Rwanda and Sweden.
His inclusion comes after months of recovery following a heart attack last June—a moment that dramatically altered his life.
“It’s always a pleasure to be back with the national team, especially after a long break. It’s a great source of pride and a great honor to be back with the Greens,” Bentaleb told the Algerian Football Federation’s media outlet.
With his trademark determination and quiet gratitude, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Schalke 04 player reflected on the gravity of his journey back.
“I collapsed last June, a few days after returning from international duty. It happened on an away pitch. It was my brother who revived me,” he recounted. “There was a whole protocol to follow with the cardiologists, to ensure that I was in a healthy environment. We went through all the steps. The most important thing is health.”
His recovery was painstaking but successful, and by February, Bentaleb returned to competitive football with LOSC.
His comeback has been hailed as nothing short of miraculous.
The midfielder also paid tribute to the outpouring of support from Algerians around the world.
“I thank all Algerians for their messages of support. You have helped me a lot during this difficult time,” he said, acknowledging how the collective encouragement became a source of strength throughout his rehabilitation.
Bentaleb remains focused on contributing to the national team’s future, driven by a deep desire to help Algeria reach new heights.
“My goal is still to return to the national team. We know that you have to be good at club level, because there is no special treatment here,” he said. “For me, overcoming past failures necessarily means qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. We only did that in 2014. It’s time to get back there.”
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaching, Bentaleb underscored the importance of maintaining momentum.
“In Algeria, there are no friendly matches. Every match is important. We are already preparing for the September training camp and to arrive ready for the next AFCON-2025.”
From surviving a near-fatal collapse to stepping back onto the pitch in national colours, Bentaleb’s return symbolises resilience, hope, and a fierce will to fight for his country again.
