Hemdani poised to overhaul Algeria midfield with World Cup 2026 pair at risk

Brahim Hemdani is preparing to make significant changes in midfield with his first Algeria squad, and the new manager could leave out two players who started at the 2026 World Cup.

The early indications surrounding the expanded squad suggest Hemdani wants a younger and more creative midfield after several years of relative continuity in that area. His first selection could therefore mark a faster change in direction than initially expected.

According to Khaled Mazouzi of AL24 News, Nabil Bentaleb and Ramiz Zerrouki are both expected to miss out. Bentaleb is 31, while Zerrouki is 28, and both were in Algeria’s starting line-up during the 2026 World Cup.

Their performances during the competition had attracted criticism, however. Zerrouki, who has regularly faced scrutiny from supporters in recent years, emerged from the tournament particularly weakened. Hemdani’s new coaching staff now appears ready to bring a different approach to the centre of the team.

Adil Aouchiche, Adil Bourabaa and Himad Abdelli are all expected to take on greater importance. The trio offer profiles more focused on creativity, forward movement and operating between the lines.

Aouchiche and Bourabaa offer fresh options

Aouchiche, 24, could finally be handed a sustained opportunity at international level. The former PSG academy player is a regular starter for Schalke, who were promoted to the Bundesliga this season.

He made his Algeria debut against Guatemala in March under Vladimir Petkovic but was not included in the final squad for the World Cup. His club form could now place him in contention for a more prominent role under Hemdani.

Bourabaa would represent an even newer option. The 21-year-old Le Mans midfielder has already been involved with Algeria Under-23s and has made an encouraging start to the season as the Sarthe club return to Ligue 1.

He has contributed one goal and one assist in his first three appearances, strengthening the case for his inclusion in Hemdani’s plans. Alongside Aouchiche, he reflects the apparent intention to add more technical quality and invention to Algeria’s midfield.

Abdelli’s situation is different. Several months before the World Cup, his position at Marseille deteriorated following an altercation with his then-manager, the Senegalese coach Habib Beye. He was left out of the team at the worst possible time and subsequently missed the tournament.

Despite Marseille’s difficult start to the season, Abdelli has begun the campaign as a starter in each of the club’s first three matches. His return to the Algeria squad would therefore be less unexpected than those of the two younger midfielders.

The remaining question is how Hemdani will balance the midfield. Aouchiche, Bourabaa and Abdelli are primarily capable of carrying the ball forward or creating opportunities, so the manager must decide which player will provide the defensive security behind them.