Algeria midfielder Houssem Aouar faces race against time for October fixtures

Algerian midfielder Houssem Aouar suffered another injury setback during Al-Ittihad’s clash with Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

The former Lyon player limped off just before half-time on Friday after clutching his left hamstring.

The incident raised alarm as he collapsed without contact, suggesting a muscular problem. Early footage indicated a possible strain, but the severity remains unclear.

Medical staff fear two scenarios. A minor stretch could keep him sidelined for around five days.

A more serious muscle tear could rule him out for up to six weeks.

If the latter occurs, Aouar will likely miss Algeria’s October training camp.

The timing could not be worse for national coach Vladimir Petkovic.

The Swiss manager already faces an injury crisis in midfield. Abdelkahar Kadri, Adam Ounas, and Hicham Boudaoui all remain uncertain for the upcoming fixtures.

Algeria faces Somalia on 9 October and Uganda on 14 October in crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Petkovic needs his most experienced players available, but Aouar’s fitness concerns now threaten those plans.

Aouar has struggled to find consistency since committing to the Algerian national team. Frequent injuries have disrupted his progress and prevented him from establishing himself as a regular starter.

The technical staff had hoped this season would mark a turning point, but those ambitions now hang in the balance.

Fans share the frustration. Many believed the former AS Roma midfielder would become a key figure in Algeria’s midfield.

His creativity and vision were expected to strengthen the team’s play, but recurring physical issues continue to limit his impact.

The Algerian Football Federation awaits the results of further medical tests to determine the full extent of the injury.

Until then, doubts linger over Aouar’s availability for October’s decisive qualifiers.

Al-Ittihad will also monitor his condition closely. The Saudi side views Aouar as a vital part of their midfield, and any long-term absence would be a significant setback.

The club hopes the injury proves minor, allowing him to return to action quickly.

Aouar’s situation mirrors a pattern that has followed him in recent seasons. Injuries disrupted his final years at Lyon and hampered his brief spell at Roma.

His move to Saudi Arabia was meant to revitalise his career, but physical setbacks continue to stand in the way.

For Algeria, his potential absence adds another layer of difficulty to an already challenging qualification campaign.

The Greens currently sit in a competitive group and cannot afford any slip-ups in the next round of matches.

Petkovic must now consider alternative options in midfield if Aouar fails to recover in time.

Younger players could get a chance to step up, but replacing his experience and technical ability will not be easy.

The coming days will be decisive. Aouar’s medical assessment will determine whether he joins the national team or spends October on the sidelines.

Either way, Algeria must prepare for a crucial period with or without one of its most talented midfielders.