The anticipation surrounding the future face of the Algerian national football team post-Djamel Belmadi has reached a new height with the announcement of Estoril striker GD, Rafik Guitane, as the latest recruit. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF), under the leadership of coach Vladimir Petkovic, is making strategic moves to inject fresh talent into the Green contingent.
Rafik Guitane, who had previously represented the youth categories of the French national team, expressed his definitive decision to switch his sporting nationality to Algeria several weeks ago.
The administrative process for this transition has now been successfully completed, rendering Guitane eligible to don the jersey of the Algerian national team.
President of the Algerian Football Federation, Walid Sadi, personally reached out to Guitane, extending a warm invitation to join the national team.
The promising right winger, known for his adept use of the left foot, will be vying for a spot alongside established players like Riyad Mahrez, Adam Ounas, and Badr-Eddine Bouanani. Guitane’s stellar performances with Estoril, where he scored 7 goals and provided 4 assists in 32 matches, have positioned him as a strong competitor in the national team.
The timing of Guitane’s inclusion aligns with the upcoming national team regrouping in March, featuring friendly matches against Bolivia and South Africa as part of an international tournament organized by Algeria.
While President Walid Sadi has expressed excitement about Guitane’s decision, coach Vladimir Petkovic, who is relatively new to the role, will assess the player’s capabilities firsthand.
Guitane’s enthusiasm to represent Algeria is palpable, and he sees his heritage as unequivocally Algerian. He stated, “For me, there is no discussion about my choice, because it is 100% Algerian. Even if I am not contacted by the FAF, I will not choose Morocco.
I know players like Ramy Bensebaïni and Ismaël Bennacer.” His commitment to the national team stands in contrast to the recent disappointment with AC Milan midfielder Yacine Adli, who, despite initial expectations, expressed hopes for a call-up from the French national team.
As Rafik Guitane joins the ranks of the Algerian national team, fans eagerly await the impact he will bring under the guidance of coach Petkovic, adding a new chapter to the team’s evolving narrative.
