Feyenoord and Algeria fans have been left anxious after reports emerged that Algerian winger Anis Hadj Moussa is dealing with a potentially serious hamstring injury, sustained immediately following his participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 23-year-old, who has been pivotal for both club and country, is undergoing extensive medical evaluations to determine the severity of the problem.
Hajj Moussa featured prominently for Algeria at AFCON 2025, helping the team reach the quarter-finals before they were eliminated 2-0 by Nigeria. His performances throughout the tournament positioned him as a potential successor to Riyad Mahrez on Algeria’s right flank.
Despite missing the first two group matches due to fitness issues, he played five consecutive games and impressed observers with his pace, creativity, and goal-scoring threat.
The Feyenoord winger returned to Eredivisie action on Sunday for the Rotterdam derby against Sparta Rotterdam, but the match ended on a worrying note. “He left the field after the match at De Kuip, struggling to walk and requiring medical assistance to reach the dressing room,” Dutch media outlet FR12 reported, underlining the seriousness of the injury.
Feyenoord are now conducting comprehensive medical tests to determine whether the issue is a minor strain or a significant tear.
“He will undergo an examination to determine whether the hamstring issue is a minor strain or a more serious injury,” the report added, noting that Hajj Moussa missed Monday’s training session as a precaution.
The injury is drawing comparisons to Samir Cherki’s hamstring setback, which limited his impact during AFCON and kept him sidelined for Algeria’s later matches.
Dutch media suggest the intense schedule and lack of rest following the tournament may have contributed. “Hajj Moussa faced a packed calendar, played at AFCON, and had no rest during the holiday period,” FR12 stated.
Having appeared in 24 matches for Feyenoord this season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists, Hajj Moussa has become a vital component of Robin van Persie’s side.
