Despite recently obtaining his Algerian passport, Andy Delort has not been included in coach Djamel Belmadi’s squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a decision that surprised many fans who had anticipated seeing the Montpellier forward represent the Fennecs in Egypt. The omission, however, is not related to Delort’s form or sporting ability, but rather to administrative and procedural complications surrounding his eligibility.
Delort, who had previously played for France’s under-20 national team, was considered by FIFA to be a French player. To represent Algeria in the AFCON, he needed to complete an official nationality change through FIFA’s regulatory process. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) submitted the necessary appeal to FIFA to authorize the switch, but the procedure reportedly encountered delays, preventing the final approval in time for the squad announcement.
As a result, the Federation faced a difficult choice. With the deadline for the official squad list approaching, they could not wait indefinitely for FIFA’s clearance. To ensure that the team’s preparations continued smoothly and that Belmadi could plan for the tournament without uncertainty, the Federation allowed the coach to announce the final 23-man roster without including Delort. This administrative challenge, rather than any lack of confidence in the player’s abilities, was the decisive factor behind his absence from the list.
Delort’s case highlights the complexities of FIFA eligibility rules, which aim to regulate nationality switches in international football. Players who have represented one country in official competitions at youth level often face a waiting period or procedural requirements before they can represent another national team. While the rules are intended to maintain fairness and prevent quick nationality changes purely for sporting advantage, they can sometimes delay players’ availability even when their desire to play for another nation is clear.
For Algeria, Delort’s absence will be felt, as he was widely regarded as a potential attacking option for the squad. His ability to play across the frontline, combine physicality with technical skill, and contribute to goal-scoring opportunities could have added depth and versatility to Belmadi’s tactical plans. Nonetheless, the squad that was announced still features experienced forwards and midfielders capable of competing effectively at the continental level, ensuring that Algeria remains a strong contender in Group C of the tournament.
The FAF and Delort will likely continue working with FIFA to complete the nationality switch, which could make him eligible for future competitions, including World Cup qualifiers or upcoming continental tournaments. In the meantime, the player’s focus may remain on his club career at Montpellier, where maintaining form and fitness is essential for any potential future call-ups.
While Delort’s absence is disappointing for fans and the player himself, it underscores the importance of administrative compliance in international football. Algeria has moved forward with its squad, preparing for the Africa Cup of Nations under Djamel Belmadi, who will rely on the available roster to compete against Kenya, Senegal, and Tanzania in Group C. The situation also serves as a reminder of how procedural matters can sometimes influence national team selections, even for highly talented players eager to make their mark on the international stage.
