Algerian international and Borussia Dortmund defender Ramy Bensebaini has spoken out regarding the potential national team future of his young club teammate, Elias Benkara.
For months, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has been actively seeking to secure the commitment of dual-national talents, aiming to bolster the Fennecs’ squad with promising prospects.
Among those targeted is Benkara, a 17-year-old central defender at Borussia Dortmund who has attracted attention due to his strong performances at youth level.
While the young talent has previously expressed his attachment to Algeria, his official call-up remains uncertain, pending the signing of his first professional contract.
A matter of personal choice
The debate surrounding dual-national players remains a significant topic in Algerian football.
Many players who have honed their skills in European academies often find themselves torn between their country of birth and their ancestral roots.
Addressing this issue, Bensebaini made it clear that such decisions must come from a place of genuine commitment.
“I’m not here to advise anyone; anyone who feels Algerian knows what to do. They’re welcome to join us, but if they don’t want to, that’s their choice!” Bensebaini stated.
His remarks reinforce the idea that players should only represent Algeria if they feel a true connection to the team and country.
There is no coercion, only an open invitation to those who are sincerely motivated to wear the national colours.
Benkara’s potential impact
At 1.93m tall, Benkara is known for his aerial dominance and tactical awareness, making him a highly sought-after prospect for the future of Algerian football.
Bensebaini, who has had the opportunity to observe his development at Dortmund, spoke highly of the teenager’s abilities.
“He’s a very good player, tall, powerful, with a good reading of the game. He still needs experience, but if he chooses Algeria, it will be a plus for us.”
Despite Benkara’s interest in representing Algeria, the FAF is taking a measured approach.
🚨 Elias Benkara, seulement 17 ans, vit une journée exceptionnelle ! 🤯
•16h : Il affronte le FC Barcelone en Youth League.
•21h : Il est dans le groupe pro pour le choc en Ligue des Champions face au Barça.
Un talent précoce qui impressionne déjà ! 🇩🇿@mohssenpatriota pic.twitter.com/c7vc6mSuMi
— 𝘼𝙇𝙂𝙀𝙍𝙄𝘼𝘾𝙏𝙐𝙁𝙊𝙊𝙏 🇩🇿 (@algeriactufoot) December 11, 2024
Officials prefer to wait until he has secured his first professional contract before integrating him into the senior national team, ensuring he develops without undue pressure.
FAF’s approach to dual nationals
Bensebaini’s stance reflects the wider philosophy within the Algerian national team—a close-knit squad that welcomes new talent but expects players to join out of genuine passion and dedication.
With an increasing number of dual nationals attracting interest from multiple federations, the FAF will need to continue its efforts in persuading emerging talents to commit to the Fennecs.
As Benkara’s career progresses, his decision will be keenly watched, with Algerian fans hopeful that he will choose to strengthen the national team in the years to come.
