Algeria face growing concern over Samir Chergui before World Cup preparations

Samir Chergui’s hopes of securing a place in Algeria’s squad for the 2026 World Cup are facing increasing uncertainty after a difficult campaign marked by injuries, limited playing time and questions surrounding his role at club level.

The FC Paris defender had been viewed as one of the serious options for Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic ahead of the upcoming international gathering scheduled for 25 May.

His versatility across the defensive line, particularly at centre-back and right-back, had strengthened his case during earlier stages of the season.

But with the World Cup now approaching rapidly, Chergui finds himself in a complicated position after months of physical setbacks interrupted his progress at a decisive moment in his career.

The Algerian international endured a season repeatedly disrupted by fitness problems.

After suffering an injury last November, he was again sidelined during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, forcing him into another lengthy spell away from competition.

Those setbacks significantly slowed his momentum at club level and raised concerns about whether he would be able to recover in time to compete for a place in Petkovic’s plans.

Chergui eventually returned to training in March, but his reintegration into the FC Paris squad has not gone smoothly.

He first appeared briefly against Lorient before making his first start since recovery in a match against Metz.

In that game, he was deployed in defensive midfield and completed the full match, a performance that appeared to signal a possible return to regular involvement.

However, the situation quickly changed again in the following weeks.

Since the Metz encounter, Chergui’s playing time has reduced sharply.

The defender has not featured in FC Paris’ last two matches, including the recent fixture against Rennes, and no official explanation has been provided by the club regarding his absence.

That silence has fuelled speculation around his current status within the squad.

Questions are now emerging over whether the decision is linked to tactical choices, physical concerns or competition for places inside the team.

For Chergui, the timing could hardly be worse.

Algeria are entering one of the most important periods of preparation ahead of the 2026 World Cup, and Petkovic is still working on finalising his squad.

With several players competing for defensive positions, regular playing time and physical reliability are likely to weigh heavily in the coach’s final assessment.

Chergui’s ability to operate in different defensive roles had previously made him a valuable option for the national team. His adaptability offered balance to the squad, especially in matches requiring tactical flexibility.

But long absences and uncertainty at club level have complicated that picture.

The coming days may now prove decisive for the FC Paris player as he attempts to convince the Algerian coaching staff that he can still contribute at the highest level despite an interrupted season.

Algeria’s technical staff are expected to monitor the physical condition of several players before the training camp begins later this month.

Chergui remains part of the wider conversation surrounding the squad, but his reduced involvement in recent weeks has inevitably weakened his position.

His case also reflects the intense competition currently surrounding places within the Algerian national team.

With the World Cup drawing closer, every training session and every appearance at club level has become increasingly important for players hoping to secure selection.

For Chergui, what once looked like a promising path toward the tournament has become a race against time.

The defender’s difficult season has not erased the qualities that first brought him into contention. His tactical intelligence and defensive versatility remain appreciated within Algerian football circles.

Yet the lack of continuity since his return from injury has created uncertainty at precisely the wrong moment.

Petkovic now faces difficult choices as he evaluates which players are physically prepared to handle the demands of a major international competition.

In that context, Chergui’s recent absence from FC Paris matches has inevitably attracted attention.

There is still time for the situation to change before Algeria finalise preparations for the tournament.

However, with the national team camp approaching rapidly, Chergui’s hopes of earning a place among Algeria’s World Cup options appear increasingly fragile.

Whether he can recover momentum in the final weeks before selection remains one of the key questions surrounding Algeria’s defensive options ahead of the global competition.