Ishak Belfodil, the Parma striker who joined last summer, has made it clear that he will not be available if the Algerian football team qualifies for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. Despite Algeria’s strong position for qualification after a 1-0 victory over Libya in the first leg of the last round of qualifiers, Belfodil has declined the invitation to join the team, and he also expressed his unavailability for the return match against Libya in October.
In his statement, Belfodil cited his current situation with his club as the reason for not being able to commit to the national team. He mentioned, “I cannot currently ensure my presence among the Greens. My selection was rushed, and it is true that I am happy to be able to defend the colors of my country, but my situation with my club prevents me from doing so. I cannot be present at the CAN (in the event of Algeria qualifying).”
Belfodil expressed surprise at the early call-up, stating, “Well, to be honest, I didn’t think I was going to be summoned this early. I knew that I was included in the coach’s calculations and that I was going to be in the selection, but only when I had proven myself at the club.” Despite being honored by the call-up, he expressed a preference for establishing himself with his club before joining the national team.
Furthermore, Belfodil raised concerns about the African competition, explaining, “I know that the national coach wants me for the CAN 2013, which is looming on the horizon, but I cannot come at the moment for two reasons: the CAN is not registered as a FIFA date, and, in addition, it would be difficult for me to leave my club at a time when I want to establish myself.”
Algeria is on track to qualify for their 15th appearance in the African Cup of Nations after the away victory against Libya, with the return match scheduled for October 14 in Blida.
