Algeria consider four new faces as Hemdani plans November squad

Brahim Hemdani is considering several changes to his Algeria squad for November, with four players reportedly under consideration after a mixed start to his tenure.

Kelyann Bezahaf, Rayan Akacem, Mohamed Azzi and Boulkaboul are the names being linked with a potential call-up, according to journalist Khaled Mazouzi.

The possible selections would continue the renewal of the Algeria team under Hemdani, who was appointed after the 2026 World Cup. The manager made several changes to his first squad in September and could broaden his options further at the next international window.

Bezahaf has made an impression at Olympique de Marseille after being given opportunities during a difficult period for the club. A call-up would represent another significant step in the young player’s progress.

Akacem, who plays for CR Belouizdad, is also reportedly being closely monitored. His inclusion would underline the apparent intention of Hemdani’s staff to look beyond Algeria’s overseas-based players when assessing potential recruits.

Mohamed Azzi, currently with CSKA Moscow, is another player whose name has emerged. Boulkaboul, meanwhile, could provide an additional option at left-back after attracting attention with his performances in the Algerian league.

The JS Kabylie defender joined from WA Mostaganem in the middle of last season. His possible selection would also highlight the importance being placed on players from Ligue 1 Mobilis, who regularly face competition from members of the Algerian diaspora and established expatriate players for places in the national team.

A potential alternative at left-back

Interest in Boulkaboul comes as Rayan Ait-Nouri faces an uncertain situation with Algeria. The Manchester City left-back was left out of the previous squad following a disagreement with Hemdani and is also experiencing difficulties at club level.

Ait-Nouri has reportedly not yet offered the apology required before he can return to the national team. Given his complicated sporting situation in England and the dispute with the coaching staff, a November comeback currently appears uncertain.

Boulkaboul’s emergence could therefore give Hemdani another option in the position. However, his potential arrival would not necessarily signal the permanent exclusion of Ait-Nouri, whose return will also depend on how his individual situation develops.

Algeria’s first competitive matches under Hemdani produced encouraging, although not entirely convincing, results. The Fennecs opened their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory against Zambia before drawing 2-2 with Burundi.

They have taken four points from a possible six and remain unbeaten, but Hemdani still has considerable work to do as he shapes his team.

The November camp could give the manager another opportunity to assess new profiles, increase competition for places and continue rebuilding the Algeria squad. It remains to be seen how many of the four reported candidates will ultimately appear in his next list.