From Belloumi to Maza: The evolution of Algeria’s famous 10 shirt

Jersey numbers carry meaning beyond the pitch, and in Algeria’s national team, the assignment of iconic numbers is increasingly under the spotlight.

Some numbers, such as Aïssa Mandi’s 2 and Riyad Mahrez’s 7, are inseparable from their wearers. Mandi’s choice reflects his family roots in Chlef, while Mahrez’s number pays homage to legends including George Best, Eric Cantona, David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Other numbers remain in flux, with players seeking to claim or reclaim them as symbols of status and style.

Numbers 4 and 5, for instance, have seen rotation in recent years. Djamel Benlamri’s 4, once worn by Tougai and Abada, and Halliche’s former 5, now eyed by Bensebaini, reflect ongoing transitions in the squad.

In midfield, number 6, historically associated with full-backs like Djamel Mesbah or Mohamed Farsi, is now sought by defensive midfielder Ramiz Zerrouki. The number 8 has recently been worn by Houssem Aouar since Youcef Belaili’s injury.

The iconic numbers 9, 10, and 11 remain central to the discussion. Baghdad Bounedjah has owned number 9 since 2018, while Slimani prefers 13.

The number 11, historically a symbol of flair, has passed through the hands of Rabah Madjer, Yacine Brahimi, Youcef Belaili, and now Anis Hadj Moussa.

The number 10, long associated with legendary playmakers, has experienced instability. From Lakhdar Belloumi in the 1980s, through Cherif Oudjani, Abdehafid Tasfaout, Rafi Saïfi, and Sofiane Feghouli, to more recent wearers like Belaili, Benrahma, Bennacer, and Chaibi, the number has struggled to maintain its identity. Today, the number 10 is poised for a new chapter with Ibrahim Maza.

At just 20, the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder embodies the modern playmaker: creative, dynamic, and capable of decisive individual actions.

Having chosen Algeria early in his career, he enjoys a strong connection with the fans. Maza has already worn the number 10 in Berlin, signaling both confidence and responsibility, yet he has only briefly carried it for Algeria against Uganda.

As nations like Turkey, Spain, and Germany increasingly entrust key roles to young talents such as Kenan Yıldız, Lamine Yamal, and Jamal Musiala, Algeria may be ready to follow suit, investing in Maza as the next custodian of the revered number 10.