France youth international Ryles Trouba joins Algeria ahead of Morocco clash

Ryles Trouba has chosen to represent Algeria at the UNAF tournament in Tunisia, joining Karim Ziani’s squad just days before the team begins its qualifying campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations U17 2027 against Morocco.

The 16-year-old Le Havre player has already represented France at youth level, making his decision a significant addition for an Algerian side made up of players born in 2010.

Trouba was born in Sevres on 11 March 2010. He began his development with AC Boulogne-Billancourt before moving to FC Issy-les-Moulineaux and then Paris 13 Atletico. He joined Le Havre in 2025.

Primarily a defensive midfielder, Trouba can also play in defence. He has made five appearances for France Under-16s, starting three of those matches and playing a total of 197 minutes.

His France involvement included games against Switzerland and Luxembourg, followed by a tournament last June featuring matches against Argentina and Japan. Those youth appearances do not permanently commit him to France.

Trouba gives Algeria another option in front of the defence and could also help the team build play from the back. His arrival strengthens Ziani’s squad, although the player is still only 16.

Algeria face demanding UNAF schedule

Trouba joins a group operating separately from the Algeria Under-17 side coached by Amine Ghimouz, who are preparing for their own age-group World Cup. Ziani is working with the next generation, comprising players born in 2010.

The team is sometimes referred to as the Under-17 B side, but it is this group that will attempt to qualify Algeria for the Africa Cup of Nations U17 2027.

Their tournament begins with the most prominent fixture, a derby against Morocco on Tuesday, 10 November at 14:00 at the Olympic Stadium in Sousse.

Algeria will then play Tunisia on 13 November before meeting Egypt in Monastir on 16 November.

The schedule was changed after Libya withdrew from the competition. Four teams now remain in contention, with the top two in the mini-league qualifying for the final tournament.

With so few matches available and every result carrying significant importance, Trouba’s ability to operate in more than one position and his experience of international youth football add further depth to Ziani’s squad.