Algeria step up talks over dual nationals Khalis Merah and Yanis Massolin

Brahim Hemdani says Algeria are in regular contact with dual nationals Khalis Merah and Yanis Massolin as the national team continues its efforts to recruit both players.

Neither midfielder has been included in the squad for Algeria’s matches against Togo on 14 and 17 November, but their international futures remain under discussion. Hemdani’s latest comments suggest the Federation algerienne de football (FAF) is actively working on both cases.

“We are in regular contact with the players. The two you mentioned are being monitored and we are doing everything necessary to understand their situation and, potentially, create the conditions for them to be called up to the national team,” the Algeria manager said at a news conference on Thursday.

Hemdani also revealed that he had watched both players in action last weekend, indicating that they remain under consideration by the Algeria coaching staff.

The situation surrounding Khalis Merah appears to be progressing positively. According to information from winwin, the father of the Olympique Lyonnais midfielder has given an agreement in principle following discussions with FAF president Walid Sadi.

However, Algeria are keen to proceed carefully. The federation is understood to be waiting for the young player to secure more regular playing time at club level before taking the next step.

Massolin’s circumstances are different. The Cagliari midfielder has a physical and technical profile that interests Algeria, and he was already being tracked by the FAF during the previous international break.

Administrative procedures that had not yet been completed helped prevent the possibility of a first call-up in October. Those issues mean his international future remains unresolved, despite the continued interest from the Algerian federation.

Hemdani’s remarks confirm that the process involving both players is still active, but do not guarantee that either will eventually represent the Fennecs.

The manager did not provide a timetable for their possible arrival in the Algeria squad. His cautious assessment suggests that, while contact has been established, further persuasion and administrative work are still required before either player can be selected.

For now, Merah and Massolin remain serious options as Algeria consider strengthening their squad over the coming months.

Louis Mukoma Fargues