Ramiz Zerrouki avoided a serious setback after suffering a harsh challenge during Feyenoord’s 4-1 victory over Heracles Almelo in the Dutch Eredivisie on Sunday.
The Algerian international was on the receiving end of a reckless foul in the 89th minute, when Heracles midfielder Sem Scheperman lunged in dangerously, striking Zerrouki on the ankle.
Referee intervention was immediate, with VAR confirming the severity of the tackle and prompting a straight red card for Scheperman.
The Dutch media swiftly criticised the challenge, labelling it “unjustified and dangerous,” amid concerns for the Feyenoord player’s fitness.
Initial fears of a long-term injury were eased, however, following post-match assessments.
Feyenoord head coach Robin van Persie offered a reassuring update during his press conference.
“We were very worried about Ramiz, but the initial medical assessments are positive,” he said. The news comes as a welcome relief for both the club and Algeria’s national team staff ahead of key fixtures in June.
The timing of the incident—and the positive outcome—will be particularly significant for Algeria manager Vladimir Petkovic, who is counting on Zerrouki for the Fennecs’ upcoming training camp.
Algeria are due to face Rwanda in a World Cup qualifier before a high-profile friendly against Sweden, where the presence of an experienced midfield anchor like Zerrouki would be crucial.
The 26-year-old’s season in Rotterdam has been anything but straightforward.
After joining Feyenoord with high expectations, Zerrouki has found it difficult to consistently break into the starting lineup.
With 27 appearances across all competitions—many from the bench—he has managed just one goal and a single assist, falling short of the impact many anticipated.
His underwhelming campaign has raised questions about his long-term future at the club.
Reports from Dutch outlets suggest that Feyenoord could be open to a transfer this summer, particularly if a suitable offer arrives.
Interest has reportedly emerged from several Ligue 1 clubs as well as Eredivisie sides outside the league’s dominant trio.
While the tackle on Sunday could have dramatically altered Zerrouki’s short-term prospects, the positive medical news offers a lifeline—not only for his summer with the Algerian national team, but also as he contemplates the next step in a career that now appears poised for a fresh chapter.
