Luca Zidane injury boost brings renewed hope for Algeria’s World Cup plans

Luca Zidane is expected to return to action within weeks after undergoing surgery for a facial injury, raising hopes he could be fit in time for Algeria’s 2026 World Cup campaign.

The Algerian international goalkeeper had sparked concern after being forced off during Granada’s match against UD Almería last weekend following a heavy collision.

The incident, which occurred during a corner kick, left him visibly shaken and in need of immediate medical attention.

Zidane was taken to hospital shortly after leaving the pitch, where examinations confirmed he had suffered a fractured jaw and chin.

The injury required surgery, initially casting doubt over his availability for the upcoming international tournament.

In the immediate aftermath, the severity of the injury prompted fears that his recovery period could extend into the World Cup preparations.

The timing of the setback, just weeks before Algeria’s campaign, added to the uncertainty surrounding his fitness.

However, more recent updates have provided a more optimistic outlook.

According to sources close to the player cited by the Arabic-language outlet Koora, Zidane’s absence is now expected to last between three and four weeks.

This timeframe would allow him to return before the end of the season.

Such a recovery schedule could even open the possibility of Zidane featuring in Granada’s final match, depending on his progress.

The revised timeline has eased earlier concerns and suggests that the injury may not have as long-term an impact as first feared.

The player himself offered reassurance following the procedure.

In a message shared on social media, he confirmed that ” the operation went well ” and added that ” the fear was greater than the actual injury .”

His comments indicate a positive outlook as he begins the recovery process.

They also reinforce expectations that he could return to training and competitive action sooner than initially anticipated.

For Algeria, the development comes as a welcome relief.

Head coach Vladimir Petkovic has viewed Zidane as his first-choice goalkeeper in recent months, making his fitness a key consideration ahead of the tournament.

If the recovery proceeds without complications, Zidane is expected to be available for selection when Algeria begin their World Cup campaign.

The team is scheduled to play its opening match on 17 June against Argentina.

Algeria’s group also includes Jordan and Austria, placing additional importance on squad readiness as the competition approaches.

The availability of a first-choice goalkeeper is seen as a crucial factor in preparations.

Zidane’s injury had added to concerns around the goalkeeping position, an area already described as sensitive.

His potential return therefore provides a degree of stability at a time when the squad is finalising its plans.

The goalkeeper’s progress over the coming weeks will be closely monitored, with medical staff likely to take a cautious approach to ensure a full recovery.

🚨Luca Zidane assure qu’il sera de RETOUR TRÈS PROCHAINEMENT ! 💪 pic.twitter.com/CpDzCYKym5

— Algérie Football Média 🇩🇿 (@DZFOOTBALLDZ) April 29, 2026

While optimism has grown, his readiness will ultimately depend on how he responds during rehabilitation.

For now, the latest information points to a significantly improved outlook compared with initial fears.

What began as a worrying situation has shifted towards cautious confidence, with the player targeting a return in time to contribute.

As Algeria continue their preparations, Zidane’s recovery represents a key development, offering encouragement that one of their important players could be available when the tournament begins.