Algerian striker Islam Slimani denied writing a viral Facebook post suggesting his desire to return to the national team and compete in the 2026 World Cup.
Fans noticed the message on Monday evening and believed the 37-year-old forward wanted to represent Algeria again under coach Vladimir Petkovic.
The emotional post appeared to express Slimani’s ambition to rejoin the Fennecs and play a part in their qualification journey.
The post claimed Slimani still dreamed of wearing the national shirt and competing at another World Cup. It stated that both he and Algerian fans shared this ambition.
The striker appeared to appeal directly to Petkovic to consider him for future call-ups.
Slimani quickly clarified that the post was fake and that hackers had accessed his account. He addressed the situation on Instagram and urged followers to report the incident.
“This article was not published by me. My account has been hacked. Please report it,” Slimani wrote on his story.
The fake message, which began with “Thanks to God and the efforts of the players…,” misled many fans into believing Slimani was preparing for an international comeback.
After several hours of confusion, Slimani regained access to his Facebook account and set the record straight.
While the message was false, Slimani’s hope of returning to the Algeria squad remains real.
The national team’s all-time leading scorer with 46 goals in 102 appearances has not featured since Petkovic’s appointment in March 2024.
Slimani left for a final challenge in Europe by joining Romanian side CFR Cluj. He has played two matches for the club so far and provided one assist as he attempts to prove his form.
The experienced striker continues to train and compete at the highest level despite the challenges that come with age and competition for places. He understands that a return to the national team will not come easily.
At 37, Slimani recognises that talent alone will not guarantee a call-up. The competition for attacking roles within the national team is fierce, and younger forwards are pushing for regular selection. Yet Slimani has built his career on perseverance and remains determined to fight for his place.
The forward, who began his career at CR Belouizdad before enjoying spells with Sporting Lisbon, Monaco and several European clubs, remains one of Algeria’s most iconic players.
His leadership, experience and track record make him a figure many fans would still like to see represent the Fennecs.
Slimani believes that performances on the pitch, not words on social media, will shape his future with the national team.
He continues to focus on delivering strong displays for CFR Cluj in hopes that Petkovic will take notice.
For now, Slimani’s supposed message about a World Cup return was nothing more than a hacker’s fabrication.
But his passion for Algeria and his dream of one last appearance on football’s biggest stage remain alive.
