Olympique Lyon forward Kyle Boudache confirms Algeria choice despite potential Zidane call

Kyle Boudache has reaffirmed his decision to represent Algeria, saying his international choice would not change even if he received a call from France manager Zinedine Zidane.

The 20-year-old Olympique Lyon forward told Algerian newspaper El Khabar on Tuesday that his greatest ambitions are to wear the Algeria shirt at a World Cup and compete in Europe’s biggest club competitions.

Boudache’s preference for Algeria has now moved beyond previous statements, with the forward taking an official step towards representing the country. He has accepted the opportunity to play for Algeria and received his first call-up to the Algeria under-23 team.

The selection was made by the Olympic side’s manager, Rafiq Saifi, and underlines Boudache’s intention to begin his international career with Algeria.

Asked whether he could be persuaded to play for France if Zidane contacted him, Boudache gave a clear response.

“It will be Algeria in any case; it is my country,” he said.

The forward’s comments reflect his attachment to his Algerian roots, despite being eligible for France and developing his career in French football.

Boudache has also identified playing at a World Cup with Algeria and appearing in major European competitions with his club as key targets.

“For me, the dream is to play in major competitions such as the Champions League, as well as play at the World Cup with Algeria,” he said.

His connection to Algeria extends beyond football and national-team ambitions. Boudache said his family comes from the Kabylie region and that he visits the area with them every summer.

“I go to Kabylie every summer with my family. We return there to recharge our energy, because we come from this region,” he said.

Boudache is currently seeking to establish himself at Olympique Lyon after joining the club during the summer transfer window. He spent last season with Nice, making 19 appearances and scoring three goals.

The striker hopes his move to Lyon will provide an important stage in his development and help him progress towards the major competitions he wants to play in, both at club level and internationally.

While Boudache’s career in French football is beginning to develop, his international future appears settled. He has chosen Algeria and insists that any future attempt to convince him to represent France would not alter that decision.