Algeria’s hopes of securing the international allegiance of highly rated midfielder Maghnes Akliouche have been dashed after the AS Monaco star accepted a call-up to France’s national team for the September 2025 international break.
The 22-year-old, born in Tremblay-en-France in the Île-de-France region, had long been at the centre of a tug-of-war between the French Football Federation (FFF) and the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).
Akliouche, who rose through Monaco’s youth academy before establishing himself in the club’s senior squad, had been viewed by Algerian officials as a cornerstone for the next generation of the Fennecs.
The Choice
After months of speculation and pressure from both federations, Akliouche opted to pledge his future to France, a decision confirmed when Didier Deschamps named him among the 23 players selected for the upcoming fixtures.
The announcement ended Algeria’s pursuit of a player who many believed would have been a natural fit for the national side, both because of his heritage and his creative flair on the pitch.
Akliouche’s inclusion in Deschamps’ squad is seen as a major endorsement of his progress at Monaco, where he has earned plaudits for his technical ability, vision, and versatility in midfield.
The decision to choose France over Algeria, however, is a bitter disappointment for Algerian supporters who had hoped to see him follow in the footsteps of other French-born stars who committed their careers to the Fennecs.
Cultural Duality
Akliouche grew up in a household deeply connected to both French and Algerian traditions, reflecting the dual heritage that often places young players before difficult decisions regarding their international futures.
While many had expected him to eventually don the green jersey of Algeria, the midfielder has chosen to pursue his career at the highest competitive level offered by France.
For Algeria, this decision represents more than the loss of one player—it highlights the ongoing challenge of convincing dual-nationality footballers to represent the Fennecs, despite the emotional and cultural ties many hold to the country.
Reaction in Algeria
The news has been met with disappointment across Algerian media, with headlines describing the decision as a “hard blow” for the national side. Analysts noted that Akliouche’s creative profile would have provided a boost to Algeria’s midfield options ahead of key qualifiers.
Some supporters expressed frustration, pointing to a recurring trend of young talents opting for European nations rather than Algeria.
Yet officials at the FAF have urged calm, stressing the importance of focusing on players fully committed to the project. “We respect Maghnes Akliouche’s decision,” a federation source told local outlets. “Our national team is built on passion and dedication, and we will continue to develop talents who believe in the Algerian cause.”
France’s Gain
For France, Akliouche’s decision strengthens their already rich talent pool. Deschamps’ willingness to hand him a call-up at this stage suggests the French manager sees long-term potential in the Monaco midfielder, who could gradually be integrated into the squad as part of the generational transition.
Akliouche now has the opportunity to train alongside some of the world’s top footballers, an environment that could accelerate his growth and elevate his career to new heights.
While competition for places in France’s midfield remains fierce, his technical attributes give him a chance to carve out a role within one of the strongest national teams in world football.
Looking Forward
Algeria, meanwhile, must turn the page quickly as they prepare for upcoming fixtures without the services of a player many once envisioned as a future leader.
The episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle for dual-nationality talent and the difficult choices faced by footballers who straddle two worlds.
For Maghnes Akliouche, the decision has been made: the green of Algeria will not be part of his international career. Instead, he has embraced the blue of France, leaving Algerian fans to wonder what might have been.
🧳 Back to school for Les Bleus 🇫🇷
📋 Didier Deschamps has unveiled his list of 23, with a first call-up for Maghnes Akliouche 🔥
👉 All eyes now on the start of 2026 World Cup qualifiers! 🏆#FiersdetreBleus pic.twitter.com/vDd19KXj9V
— French Team ⭐⭐ (@FrenchTeam) August 27, 2025