Abderrahmane Achouri: why USM Alger’s fearless teenager must learn patience

Abderrahmane Achouri is one of the 25 young players to watch in the 2026/27 Ligue 1 algerienne season, and the USM Alger forward is already developing a reputation for playing without fear.

The ranking, part of the #TalentsAlgeriens series, considers more than natural ability. It also assesses potential, expected club involvement and the role the coming campaign could play in each player’s development.

Born in Chlef on 12 February 2008, Achouri has displayed the same attitude against Morocco and Egypt as he does against domestic opponents, according to Aziz Lahoussine, who coached him for a season at USM Alger’s academy and previously worked with the Algeria U17 team.

That confidence has helped Achouri compete successfully against older players without appearing overawed. However, it can also create problems. While pressure does not seem to affect him, provocation from opponents can draw a reaction.

A player who has rarely stayed in his age group

Achouri began his development at Paradou AC before moving to USM Alger in the summer of 2024. He was quickly placed in teams above his age group, a pattern that has continued throughout his youth career.

Sofiane Benkhelifa, a coach and former youth developer who has worked with USM Alger, Olympique Akbou and ES Setif, was involved in bringing him to the club. He regards Achouri as an unusual talent, a view also shared by Nacer Zekri, who coached him with USM Alger’s U20 side last season.

The teenager has now started training and appearing around the first team, with USM Alger extending his contract until 2029. At 18, his principal challenge is to find the right path into senior football.

Lahoussine mainly used him on the left during his youth career, cutting inside onto his stronger right foot. He also gave him considerable freedom, particularly when Achouri was able to attack open space at pace.

That direct running is one of his greatest strengths. Once he gains momentum, his speed and ability to carry the ball make him difficult to contain. However, Zekri has identified a weakness in his defensive positioning. Lahoussine accepted that trade-off at youth level to preserve Achouri’s attacking energy.

With the senior team, the demands will be greater. Achouri must retain his pace, directness and movement behind the defence while gradually contributing more to the team’s overall shape.

Controlling his emotions

His most important development area may be emotional rather than tactical. Lahoussine says opponents quickly recognised the threat he posed and attempted to unsettle him.

During a 13-match first half of the season with USM Alger, Achouri was sent off twice. Those incidents reflected both sides of his character: the bravery that allows him to confront any opponent, and the tendency to respond when he feels provoked.

Benkhelifa has also highlighted that aspect of his personality. The aim is not to remove his edge, but to help him control it.

Achouri’s impatience is another consequence of having so often played above his age group. At USM Alger, he may have to accept a slower progression. Lahoussine believes young players face limited opportunities at Algeria’s major clubs because of results pressure, supporter expectations and investment in experienced signings.

He favours a gradual introduction, with Achouri continuing to play for the U20s when he is not involved with the first team. This season can therefore provide a bridge into senior football, giving him regular opportunities without forcing him into an artificial starting role.

USM Alger have secured his future until 2029. Achouri now has to learn when to accelerate, when to wait and, above all, when not to react.