Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche explains decision to represent France over Algeria

AS Monaco attacker Maghnes Akliouche has explained his decision to represent France at the international stage at the expense of Algeria.

The 23-year-old, who plies his trade for French Ligue 1 giants AS Monaco has earned his first call up into the France national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers next month.

France will travel to face Ukraine on September 5 before hosting Iceland on September 9, 2025 in Paris.

Ahead of the two games, France coach Didier Dechamps has unveiled his squad, including Akliouche, who has recently showcased glimpses of good performance for Monaco.

Despite featuring for France at the youth level, Algeria were keen on securing the talented winger, but the plans has taken a nosedive.

“Honestly, I’m very proud. It is a great surprise for me,” said the AS Monaco forward in a press conference.

Having represented France at youth level, as well as at the Paris Olympics in 2024, Akliouche said the decision to represent Les Bleus was only “logical”. It comes despite the attacking midfielder also having the chance to play for Algeria, the birthplace of his parents.

“I have deep respect for Algeria. But I have always been in the France national team at youth level, as well as at the Olympics. It was a logical continuation to represent France. It was a logical conclusion,” said Akliouche.

“There is a lot of talent in the national team, in this country. You have to be patient, and, luckily, for me, the day came.”