Ramiz Zerrouki has reclaimed his place in the Feyenoord first team after more than two months on the sidelines, with head coach Robin van Persie commending the Algerian international’s work ethic and determination.
The midfielder had been out of action for nearly 70 days due to injury, missing a crucial stretch of matches for both club and country—including Algeria’s final two qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His absence was keenly felt, and his slow but steady return to full fitness was seen as a boost for Feyenoord and Les Verts alike.
Zerrouki rejoined team training in late March and was officially named in Feyenoord’s matchday squad at the beginning of April.
His comeback coincided with Algeria’s international fixture against Mozambique in Tizi Ouzou—a moment symbolic of the midfielder’s return to relevance after an underwhelming start to the season that had been compounded by injury woes.
Over the course of his layoff, Zerrouki missed 14 competitive fixtures across domestic and continental competitions.
His reintegration into the squad has been closely monitored, and Van Persie’s decision to start him in the Eredivisie clash against Fortuna Sittard on matchday 29 took many by surprise.
Speaking to ESPN after the match, Van Persie explained the rationale behind his selection, emphasising the midfielder’s commitment and strong mentality.
“I see a very open-minded boy who is ready to improve, and that’s the most important thing,” the Dutch coach said.
“He’s someone who works extremely hard. Ramiz is a fighter—let’s not forget that. He has the heart of a lion. He shows it every day.”
Van Persie continued by praising the 25-year-old’s technical and mental attributes, describing him as a balanced midfielder who combines tenacity with composure on the ball.
“He’s a biter,” Van Persie added, “and he’s also very good with the ball. That’s not always easy to find in a player, but he brings both qualities together.”
Though impressed with his performances since returning, the Feyenoord manager acknowledged that Zerrouki remains a work in progress. Still, the signs of growth have been enough to justify giving him a starting role.
“Like any player, he has potential,” Van Persie concluded. “But when I see how he’s performed and improved in just two weeks, it makes sense to give him a chance.”
Zerrouki’s return marks a significant chapter in his season, one that began with inconsistent form and was interrupted by injury.
Now back in contention, his focus will be on regaining rhythm and contributing meaningfully as Feyenoord navigate the final stages of the campaign.
For Algeria, his comeback is also timely, offering coach Vladimir Petkovic a key midfield option ahead of the next phase of international fixtures. As both club and country continue their respective challenges, Zerrouki’s resurgence may yet prove pivotal.
