Brahim Hemdani names first Algeria squad as Bachir Belloumi returns

Brahim Hemdani has announced his first Algeria squad, with the return of Hull City forward Bachir Belloumi and the absence of Granada goalkeeper Luca Zidane the main talking points.

Hemdani was appointed Algeria manager almost two weeks ago, replacing Vladimir Petkovic, after leading the under-21 side to gold at the football tournament of the 2026 Mediterranean Games in Taranto, Italy, on 31 August. Former international Anthar Yahia has joined him as part of the new set-up.

The 26-man squad includes three goalkeepers, nine defenders, six midfielders and eight forwards. Former Algeria Olympic manager Azzedine Ait Djoudi said the priority should be to build a competitive collective rather than simply focus on the change in personnel.

The international retirements of Riyad Mahrez and Aissa Mandi mean new responsibilities must also be distributed within the team. Ait Djoudi warned Hemdani against trying to change everything immediately, saying the new coach must first establish a clear balance.

Competition for places

Luca Zidane is suspended, while Oussama Benbout is also absent according to the information provided. That leaves Melvin Mastil, Abdelatif Ramdane and Kilian Belazzoug competing for the goalkeeper positions.

Ait Djoudi described Ramdane’s call-up as a genuine opportunity, but not a guarantee that he will start. He said the decision should be based on current form and performance, rather than reputation or the circumstances behind another player’s absence.

In defence, Hemdani has selected Ramy Bensebaini, Zineddine Belaid, Ahmed Touba, Souhaib Nair, Jaouen Hadjam and Rayan Ait-Nouri. Touba’s return after a lengthy absence gives the staff the chance to reassess an experienced international, while Nair’s inclusion reflects the willingness to consider new profiles.

Ait Djoudi believes the issue will not be a lack of defenders but finding the right combinations. He also said Bensebaini’s reduced playing time at Dortmund should not, on its own, have prevented him from being selected.

The midfield is expected to be central to Hemdani’s plans. Nabil Bentaleb, Himad Abdelli, Adil Aouchiche, Fares Chaibi, Ibrahim Maza and Adem Zorgane offer different qualities, but their impact will depend on clearly defined roles.

Bentaleb’s experience, passing and ability to provide balance can explain his continued selection despite criticism after the 2026 World Cup. The exclusions of Ramiz Zerrouki, Houssem Aouar and Hicham Boudaoui, however, show that the new staff’s selection criteria will face scrutiny and should not necessarily be viewed as permanent decisions.

Belloumi return

The attack includes Mohamed Amine Amoura, Amine Gouiri, Anis Hadj Moussa, Bachir Belloumi, Ilan Kebbal, Amin Chiakha and Bilal Boutobba. Ait Djoudi said “the talent is there, but it must be used”, stressing that attacking players should not simply be placed together without collective balance.

Belloumi has been recalled after almost two years away from the national team and has impressed with Hull City. Ait Djoudi believes he deserves a genuine opportunity, while warning that he cannot be expected to revive Algeria’s attack alone.

Kebbal, omitted from the 2026 World Cup squad for sporting reasons according to the information provided, also has another chance. Ait Djoudi said he needs a clear role that allows him to create and operate between the lines.

Hemdani’s first official tests will come against Zambia and Burundi, while a friendly against Niger should provide more scope to assess players and roles. The central challenge, Ait Djoudi said, will be giving Algeria a clear identity rather than choosing only between systems such as 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1.