Algeria release Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri from squad

Algeria have released Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri from their squad without giving a reason for the decision.

The announcement came after the Desert Foxes began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 3-1 victory over Zambia.

Ait-Nouri was an unused substitute throughout the match and will now return to Manchester City. Algeria head coach Ibrahim Hamdani has not announced a replacement for the defender.

A statement from the Algerian Football Federation said: “National team coach Ibrahim Hamdani decided this Saturday to release Rayan Ait-Nouri from the current national team camp.

“The Algeria international will return to his club, Manchester City.”

Algeria will play Burundi in the second round of qualifying next Tuesday. They lead the group with three points, ahead of Togo on goal difference.

The national team are also scheduled to play a friendly against Niger on 6 October during the current international break, under Hamdani’s management.