Algeria’s Hicham Boudaoui set to join full World Cup squad in Sidi Moussa

Algerian midfielder Hicham Boudaoui is expected to arrive at the National Technical Centre in Sidi Moussa on Saturday evening, completing the national team’s squad ahead of the announcement of its final roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Boudaoui was the only player yet to join the training camp after remaining with OGC Nice for the club’s crucial Ligue 1 relegation play-off matches against AS Saint-Étienne.

His temporary absence had been agreed upon by the Algerian Football Federation, allowing him to help his club during a decisive period of the season.

Having completed his commitments in France, the 25-year-old is now set to report for international duty and link up with coach Vladimir Petković and the rest of the squad.

Reports indicate that Boudaoui’s arrival is expected in the early evening, giving Petković a complete group just hours before unveiling the final list of 26 players and one reserve for the World Cup.

The midfielder’s return is an important development for Algeria, with Boudaoui regarded as one of the key options in the centre of the pitch. His inclusion will provide the coaching staff with additional depth and experience as preparations enter their final phase.

However, there remains some uncertainty regarding his physical condition. During the first leg of Nice’s play-off tie against Saint-Étienne on 26 May, Boudaoui suffered a concussion that required him to follow the standard medical protocols associated with head injuries.

As a result, his availability for Algeria’s upcoming friendly match against the Netherlands on 3 June remains unclear. Medical assessments in the coming days are expected to determine whether he will be fit enough to participate.

Despite those concerns, there is optimism that the former Paradou AC player will recover in time for the start of the World Cup. Unless there are further complications, Boudaoui is expected to be fully available for the tournament.

His arrival marks the completion of Algeria’s training camp squad and gives Petković the opportunity to work with all of his selected players as the countdown to the World Cup continues.

With the final squad announcement imminent, attention will now turn to the team’s preparations and the fitness of one of its most important midfielders.