Amin Chiakha says he feels “more integrated” and “proud” to represent Algeria after arriving in Algiers for his latest call-up to the national squad.
The 19-year-old striker, who plays for FC Copenhagen, received a warm reception at Houari Boumediene Airport and spoke with local media ahead of Algeria’s two upcoming international friendlies against Rwanda and Sweden.
This marks Chiakha’s third call-up to the senior side, and the Denmark-born forward says he now feels increasingly at ease within the group. “Before, I didn’t feel as comfortable,” he admitted in fluent Arabic. “But now, I fit in better and I’m proud of it.”
Chiakha’s growing confidence mirrors his rise at club level. After an impressive season with FC Copenhagen — where he played a part in the Danish club securing both the domestic league title and national cup — his stock has risen significantly, drawing praise from both supporters and national team staff.
His call-up by head coach Vladimir Petkovic for the June friendlies in Constantine and Solna signals growing faith in the youngster’s abilities, even as he continues to await his first official appearance in the famous green shirt.
Despite his youth and relative inexperience at the senior international level, Chiakha’s comments reflect maturity and ambition.
Speaking ahead of the fixtures, he expressed cautious optimism about Algeria’s future, particularly with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and 2026 World Cup qualifiers on the horizon.
“The African Cup? Why not a good run,” he said. “I hope we go far, inshallah. But right now, we have two games, and we need to win them.”
Born and raised in Denmark, Chiakha completed his entire football education in the Scandinavian country but made the decision to represent Algeria internationally — a choice embraced by the Algerian public and symbolic of a new wave of dual nationals strengthening the national team’s ranks.
Though he has yet to make a competitive debut, Chiakha’s performances in training and his commitment to the squad have not gone unnoticed.
His technical ability, versatility across the front line, and composed demeanor make him a valuable asset in Algeria’s long-term plans.
More than just his footballing skills, it’s Chiakha’s humility and discipline that have impressed the coaching staff. His swift adaptation to the national team environment, both on and off the pitch, has added to the belief that he is a player for the future.
As Algeria prepares for its upcoming matches and looks ahead to major continental and global competitions, the emergence of players like Amin Chiakha offers both promise and inspiration.
In a squad balancing experience with new talent, the FC Copenhagen forward represents a new generation eager to leave their mark — grounded, ambitious, and proudly Algerian.
🟢💬 | Amin Chiakha lors de son arrivée à Alger :
« J’étais moins à l’aise avant mais désormais je m’intègre mieux dans l’équipe et j’en suis fier.
La Coupe d’Afrique ? Pourquoi pas un bon parcours j’espère qu’on ira loin insh’Allah mais pour le moment on a 2 matchs et on doit… pic.twitter.com/Huu0inGapy
— 𝗔𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗗𝘇𝗮𝗶𝗿 🇩🇿💫 (@arobasedzair2) June 1, 2025