Amine Gouiri has responded with maturity and composure to Rayan Cherki’s decision to pledge his international future to France, despite the pair sharing a close personal and professional history, and despite Gouiri’s hopes of seeing his former teammate join him in Algeria’s national squad.
The two footballers emerged from the same academy at Olympique Lyonnais, forging a bond both on and off the pitch during their formative years. Their careers, however, have since diverged sharply.
Gouiri committed to representing Algeria in 2023, a choice deeply rooted in his personal identity and connection to the North African nation.
Cherki, after a prolonged period of contemplation and speculation, ultimately chose to remain with France, confirming his allegiance by accepting a call-up that ends any uncertainty about his international future.
Speaking to L’Équipe, Gouiri addressed Cherki’s decision with a clear mix of disappointment and acceptance. “It was his decision.
He could have joined us, but that’s how things go,” said the Olympique de Marseille forward. “I know him well. Of course, I would have been happy to welcome him into the Algerian national team.”
Although his remarks carry a hint of regret, there was no trace of resentment in his tone. Gouiri, who has become a key figure in the current Algerian setup, emphasised his continued commitment to the team and its collective aspirations.
“I don’t have any regrets,” he stated firmly. “We have a talented group capable of achieving great things. The most important thing is the team spirit. There are no individual stars here — we all play for Algeria.”
Gouiri’s comments reflect the growing confidence within the Algerian camp, which currently leads its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying group with a perfect 15 points.
The Fennecs’ strong form has boosted national expectations, and Gouiri remains one of the squad’s driving forces in this critical campaign.
While Cherki’s decision not to follow in his footsteps might sting personally, Gouiri remains focused on the road ahead, praising the unity and ambition within the Algerian team.
“I knew what I was joining when I chose Algeria, and I’m proud of that choice. This team plays with heart. That’s what matters to me.”
The two players’ contrasting choices underscore the complex emotions that dual-nationality footballers often navigate.
For Gouiri, the pull of Algeria was irresistible; for Cherki, the prospect of a future with France ultimately proved more compelling.
Their shared history at Lyon is now part of a narrative that diverges at the international level.
Yet Gouiri’s respectful and grounded response highlights the camaraderie that remains between them, even as they wear different colours on the world stage.
With Algeria’s World Cup campaign gaining momentum, Gouiri appears fully focused on helping the team reach its goals.
His response to Cherki’s decision reflects a broader maturity — an understanding that international football, as personal as it may be, is also a matter of individual destiny.
🗣️🇩🇿 Amine Gouiri s’exprime sur le choix international de Rayan Cherki :
“C’est son choix. Il pouvait venir avec nous, mais c’est comme ça. Je le connais très bien, j’aurais été heureux de l’accueillir en sélection, mais on a des joueurs de qualité pour atteindre des objectifs… pic.twitter.com/tMQ7Da8fTV
— ⭐️ Squadra Khadra 🇩🇿 (@Squadra213) May 23, 2025