Fekir’s AFCON Snub Highlights Club Focus Amid National Tug-of-War
Lyon winger Nabil Fekir has ruled himself out of contention for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, choosing instead to prioritise his club career at Olympique Lyonnais. The highly-rated youngster, eligible to represent either Algeria or France, has yet to declare his international allegiance — a decision that continues to draw attention from both camps.
In comments made to Le Progrès, Fekir’s father, Mohamed, clarified the family’s stance. “Nabil wants to focus solely on OL,” he said. “It’s the club of his heart, and the only thing that matters to him right now is completing a full season with Lyon. At home, we don’t even discuss the national team. Between the Blues and the Fennecs, Nabil doesn’t know yet.”
While Mohamed Fekir admitted he would be proud to see his son represent Algeria — the country of his birth — he emphasised that the decision rests solely with Nabil. The 21-year-old forward has been in fine form for Lyon this season, raising his profile significantly in both France and Algeria.
Algeria head coach Christian Gourcuff has previously scouted Fekir and remains an admirer of the player’s technical ability and creativity. Though Gourcuff could theoretically call Fekir up for the AFCON squad in January — which would force the player to either accept or face potential sanctions — this seems unlikely at present. The former Lorient coach appears unwilling to pressure the player into a decision, preferring to keep the door open for the future.
Fekir’s stance has sparked debate among supporters of both nations. For Algeria, who impressed at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and have already secured their place at the 2015 AFCON in Equatorial Guinea, the absence of Fekir is far from a crisis. However, the possibility of adding such a dynamic attacker to their ranks remains enticing.
For France, meanwhile, the delay in securing Fekir’s commitment is concerning. With national team coach Didier Deschamps known for his long-term planning, Fekir’s emergence could offer a valuable new option in a crowded attacking line-up. But a declaration for Algeria would end those hopes — as it did in the case of other dual nationals like Sofiane Feghouli and Ryad Boudebouz.
Ultimately, Fekir’s club-first mentality may delay his international debut. His decision to forgo AFCON reflects a broader trend among young talents reluctant to disrupt their domestic progress for international tournaments, especially those held mid-season.
While Algeria did not need Fekir to qualify — nor to shine during their World Cup campaign — his future remains a tantalising subplot in the ongoing narrative of dual-national players torn between heritage and opportunity.
For now, Nabil Fekir’s sole focus remains in Lyon — but both France and Algeria will be watching closely.
