Yanis Massolin ruled out of Algeria duty despite passport rumours

Yanis Massolin remains ineligible for Algeria despite recent speculation suggesting he had obtained an Algerian passport, as interest continues to grow around the midfielder’s potential future with the national team.

The 22-year-old has enjoyed a standout season in Italy’s Serie B with Modena FC, drawing attention for his performances and establishing himself as one of the emerging Franco-Algerian players being monitored for international duty in the post-2026 World Cup cycle.

His profile has risen further following a reported move to Inter Milan in February, valued at around €5.5 million including bonuses.

The transfer has intensified discussion about whether he could soon be integrated into Algeria’s senior squad, known as the Fennecs.

The issue of his international eligibility was also addressed by Algeria head coach Vladimir Petkovic during a press conference in Algiers when announcing his squad for the March training camp.

Petkovic made clear that dual-nationality players must demonstrate their value through performance rather than expectation alone.

“Players who want to join us don’t need to be convinced. It’s the same process we started with Ibrahim Maza and Amine Chiakha, and that we’re applying today with Yanis Massolin.

They have to convince the staff that they can bring something extra to the national team. They have to come without fear and play the same way they do at their club. We have a healthy group that knows how to welcome newcomers,” Petkovic explained.

Despite growing attention around his name, Massolin is still not available for selection. As Algeria continue preparations for their final training camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup cycle, a report circulating in recent hours suggested the midfielder had secured an Algerian passport, which would have made him eligible for immediate call-up.

However, according to a reliable source cited by La Gazette du Fennec, that information is incorrect. The report confirms that Massolin has not yet obtained an Algerian passport and therefore remains ineligible to represent the national team at this stage.

While the current situation rules out any immediate involvement, the possibility of a future switch has not been closed. The process remains open-ended, and developments in the coming weeks could determine whether the midfielder eventually becomes available for international selection.

For now, though, Massolin’s focus remains at club level, while Algeria continue to monitor his progress closely as part of their long-term planning.

Faux ❌ https://t.co/yx6vw20Bii

— Yanni Abdelli (@Yani_Abdelli) April 27, 2026