Algerian midfielder Ahmed Kendouci faces uncertain future at FC Lugano

Ahmed Kendouci’s hopes of rebuilding momentum in Switzerland have suffered another setback after he remained unused for the second successive match at FC Lugano, deepening concerns over his club future and international prospects.

The Algerian midfielder watched from the bench throughout Lugano’s league encounter against FC Lausanne-Sport, only days after a similar experience.

For a player seeking consistency after a lengthy injury absence, the lack of minutes has become a pressing issue.

Kendouci’s only start for Lugano came against Servette FC, where he was withdrawn in the 68th minute after a performance that failed to fully convince. Since then, he has not featured, remaining on the bench against FC Basel and again versus Lausanne.

Swiss media have scrutinised his early displays, describing his beginning as cautious when measured against expectations surrounding his arrival.

The assessment has added to the pressure on a player who had anticipated a quicker breakthrough.

His move to the Swiss Super League had been approved by Algeria coach Vladimir Petković, who is familiar with the competition and believed it offered the right platform for Kendouci to regain form after a difficult spell.

The transfer was seen as an opportunity for the midfielder to reset following an eight-month injury lay-off.

Despite that setback, Lugano invested €1.5m to secure his signature, underlining the faith placed in him.

However, the numbers have so far fallen short of expectations. Kendouci has featured in five matches, accumulating just 103 minutes, while remaining an unused substitute in eight others.

While Lugano may afford patience to a player still regaining sharpness, time is less forgiving at international level.

Kendouci has earned eight caps under Petković, but his injury stalled his progress and interrupted his rhythm with the national side.

The midfielder retains the backing of Algeria’s coaching staff, yet his ambitions of returning to the squad and securing a place at the 2026 World Cup depend heavily on rediscovering form and regular minutes at club level.

Each game spent on the sidelines adds to the challenge ahead, as competition intensifies and opportunities narrow.