Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane to recover before 2026 World Cup

Algeria can heave a big sigh of relief with goalkeeper Luca Zidane expected to be fit before the commencement of the 2026 World Cup tournament.

The Granada shot-stopper, who also represents Algeria at international level, recently underwent surgery following a serious jaw injury sustained during a league match for Granada CF in the Spanish second division.

The injury occurred after a heavy collision with an Almería player in a match that ended in a 4-2 defeat, forcing him off the pitch after suffering concussion symptoms.

Initial fears suggested a longer recovery period, but medical reports and club updates have since provided reassurance. Granada coach José Rojo Martín has indicated that Zidane should have no issues returning in time for international duty, while Spanish media report his recovery timeline is expected to be around two to three weeks.

The update is a major boost for Algeria, who are preparing for a highly anticipated World Cup campaign in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Zidane is widely regarded as the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper, and his availability is seen as crucial to their tournament ambitions.

Concerns had briefly intensified within the Algerian setup, especially with backup goalkeepers Anthony Mandrea and Mellin Mustapha also dealing with fitness issues of their own. However, Zidane’s positive recovery outlook has helped ease fears ahead of squad selection.

The Algerian coaching staff are expected to submit a preliminary list of 35 to 55 players before May 15, with the final 23–26-man squad due by June 1. Zidane’s inclusion now appears increasingly likely barring any setbacks.

Algeria will begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 with a high-profile opening clash against reigning champions Argentina national football team—a fixture that will demand their strongest possible lineup.

For now, the message from medical reports and club officials is clear: despite the scare, Zidane’s World Cup dream remains very much on track.