Algeria unveils new faces in the fennecs squad for 2023: A glimpse into coach Belmadi’s selection
As the curtains draw on 2023, Algerian football fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter for the national team, the Fennecs, as Coach Djamel Belmadi introduces a fresh wave of talent. These promising players, recently enlisted, harbor aspirations of leaving an indelible mark on the upcoming African Cup of Nations (CAN) 2023 in Ivory Coast. Let’s delve into the profiles of these emerging stars, tracing their backgrounds and assessing their current standing in the national squad.
Rayan Ait-Nouri: Position: Left-Back, Club: Wolves (Premier League)
At only 22 years old, the left-back for Wolves in England, Rayan Aït-Nouri, has made significant strides in 2023. Having debuted for the Algerian selection in March against Niger, he showcased his capabilities during CAN qualifiers, earning three subsequent starts. Aït-Nouri, a modern full-back with room for improvement in crosses, is poised to be a cornerstone in the Fennecs’ left-back position.
Kevin Guitoun (Van Den Kerkhof): Position: Right-Back, Club: FC Metz (Ligue 1)
A solid presence in FC Metz, Kevin Guitoun, also known as Van Den Kerkhof, is set to accompany the team to Ivory Coast. Capped five times, the former SC Bastia defender, aged 27, emerges as an ideal understudy for Youcef Atal, possessing similar experience and enthusiasm for the continental tournament.
Fares Chaïbi: Position: Attacking Midfielder, Club: Frankfurt (Bundesliga)
At only 21, Farès Chaïbi, the dynamic attacking midfielder from Frankfurt, has made waves in the Bundesliga. With 13 appearances and one goal in the demanding German league, Chaïbi is expected to play a pivotal role for the Fennecs in CAN 2023, showcasing his potential on the continental stage.
Badredine Bouanani: Position: Attacking Midfielder, Club: OGC Nice (Ligue 1)
Despite a challenging season with limited playing time due to injuries, the 19-year-old attacking midfielder from OGC Nice, Badredine Bouanani, is ruled out for CAN 2023. An ankle injury currently sidelines him, depriving Coach Belmadi of his services.
Zineddine Belaïd: Position: Central Defender, Club: USM Algiers
While boasting undeniable qualities, Zineddine Belaïd, a 24-year-old central defender from USM Algiers, faces exclusion from CAN 2023 due to limited playing time in the domestic league. With only seven matches played, Belaïd’s absence is anticipated despite his eagerness to represent Algeria.
Houssem Aouar: Position: Midfielder, Club: AS Roma
Struggling to establish himself in Italy, Houssem Aouar, the midfielder from AS Roma, faces a race against time to recover from a left adductor injury before CAN 2023. With notable qualities, Aouar’s inclusion remains uncertain until the final squad announcement.
Himad Abdelli: Position: Attacking Midfielder, Club: SCO Angers (Ligue 2)
Himad Abdelli, a 24-year-old attacking midfielder, has showcased potential with SCO Angers in Ligue 2. Despite an interesting season, competition for places limits his chances for CAN 2023. Abdelli’s time with the national team may come post the continental tournament.
Aymen Mahious: Position: Striker, Club: Yverdon Sport (Switzerland)
Although prolific at the domestic level, Aymen Mahious, the 26-year-old striker, finds limited opportunities with the national team, earning only two caps. Absent from Coach Belmadi’s plans, Mahious is unlikely to feature in CAN 2023.
Amine Gouiri: Position: Forward, Club: Stade Rennais (Ligue 1)
Amine Gouiri, with four caps, brings versatility to the Fennecs’ attack. The 23-year-old forward, capable of playing on the left wing or as a center forward, is set to make his mark in CAN 2023, embodying the future of Algeria’s attacking prowess.
Yasser Larouci: Position: Left-Back, Club: Sheffield (Premier League)
Despite limited playtime with Sheffield in the Premier League, the potential of 22-year-old left-back Yasser Larouci earns him consideration for CAN 2023. Anticipated to serve as an understudy to Rayan Aït-Nouri, Larouci’s inclusion adds depth to the Fennecs’ defensive lineup.
In addition to these confirmed or potential selections, two players, Bachir Belloumi and Oussama Benbot, await their first caps, bringing an air of anticipation and excitement to the Algerian contingent. As Coach Djamel Belmadi finalizes his squad for the continental challenge, Algerian football enthusiasts eagerly await the unveiling of the definitive lineup set to represent the Fennecs in Ivory Coast.
