Hadj Moussa’s next move could shape his place in Algeria’s post-Mahrez era

Anis Hadj Moussa is considering one of the most significant decisions of his young career, with Al-Ittihad interested in signing the Algeria winger after an outstanding season with Feyenoord. A move to Saudi Arabia at the age of 24 has already prompted concern among some supporters of the Fennecs, who fear it could slow his progress at international level.

Since making his Algeria debut in March 2024, Hadj Moussa has often been described as the natural successor to Riyad Mahrez. The left-footed winger is known for his explosive pace and dribbling ability, qualities which have led to comparisons with the former Algeria captain.

Mahrez has said the 2026 World Cup will be his final international tournament, increasing the focus on who might eventually take on a leading role for the national team.

Hadj Moussa appears to be reaching that moment in his career. He scored 14 goals and provided seven assists in 40 appearances for Feyenoord last season, performances which raised expectations that he could take the next step at an even more prominent European club.

Many Algeria supporters hoped he would continue his development in Europe and follow, in his own way, the upward path taken by Mahrez. However, the high-profile options linked with him during the summer have so far failed to produce a concrete move.

Lille, Olympique de Marseille and Sporting CP have all been mentioned as possible destinations, but none of those possibilities has materialised. Interest from Al-Ittihad therefore represents a potentially decisive alternative.

For some Algeria fans, leaving European football at such a young age would amount to a missed opportunity. One supporter reacted angrily by saying: «S’il finit en Arabie saoudite a 24 ans, faut tellement le blacklister de la selection», while another described a possible transfer to Al-Ittihad as «le plus grand gachis de l’histoire du football algerien».

The idea of Hadj Moussa being excluded from the national team appears excessive, however. It would be difficult to imagine the Algerian Football Federation stopping its selection of a player simply because he had chosen, like many other internationals, to move to Saudi Arabia.

The concern is more likely to be sporting than disciplinary. With a major role available on the right side of Algeria’s attack following Mahrez’s departure, Hadj Moussa still has to show that he can carry the responsibility associated with becoming one of the Fennecs’ principal players.

Remaining in a highly visible European league, playing in UEFA competitions and regularly facing top-level opponents could help him improve while maintaining his profile. Those factors are central to the disappointment that would accompany a move away from the European game at this stage of his career.

Saudi Arabia’s top flight should not be dismissed entirely, though. Since launching its extensive sporting project, the country has sought to recruit not only established stars in the final stages of their careers, but also younger players with the potential to increase in value.

That strategy is intended to help shift the centre of elite football beyond its traditional locations. A move to Al-Ittihad would also give Hadj Moussa the chance to play alongside Algeria team-mate Houssem Aouar and Senegal international Dion Lopy.

Joining the club in Jeddah would not necessarily end his European career permanently, as a return to the continent could remain possible in the future. The decision would nevertheless be closely watched because of the expectations already placed on him.

For an Algeria side beginning to look beyond Mahrez, Hadj Moussa is increasingly viewed as one of the symbols of the next generation. With an opportunity to establish himself as a leading figure approaching, the choice of his next club could have a major influence on how quickly he assumes that role.