The Tunisian Football Federation is racing against time to secure the services of highly rated striker Rayan Elloumi, whose international future now hangs in the balance ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Born in 2007 in Canada to Tunisian parents, Halloumi is eligible to represent both Tunisia and Canada, and his exceptional pace, finishing ability, and attacking instinct have made him a coveted talent on both sides of the Atlantic.
A World Cup–bound talent
Elloumi’s rising profile comes at a crucial time, as both Tunisia and Canada are preparing for the 2026 World Cup – Tunisia having already qualified, while Canada is one of the host nations.
Despite attending several training camps with Canada, Elloumi has yet to feature in an official match for the senior team, leaving him hesitant to commit.
Meanwhile, Tunisia has tried to integrate the striker into their setup, calling him up to the Olympic (U-23) team, where he impressed in a 3-1 friendly victory over Iraq, showcasing his movement and goal-scoring instincts.
Missed opportunities and administrative missteps
The complications date back to the tenure of former coach Sami Trabelsi, who recognised Elloumi’s potential and urged the federation to include him in the Arab Cup squad to secure his commitment to Tunisia.
That opportunity was missed, as Hazem Mestouri, playing in Russia, was selected instead. This administrative delay gave Canada the opening to reassert its interest, and Elloumi’s positive reaction to the call-up – posting “Proud” on Instagram – sparked concern in Tunisian football circles.
The corrective race
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the Tunisian FA is under pressure to convince Halloumi that the Carthage Eagles represent the best path for his international career.
The senior team is in clear need of attacking talent, and integrating a young, dynamic forward like Halloumi could address this gap. Success in this effort will depend on timely outreach, clear communication, and the promise of opportunities that match his potential – otherwise, Tunisia risks losing one of its most promising talents to a rival nation at a pivotal moment in global football.
Elloumi’s decision now carries significant implications not only for his career but also for the Carthage Eagles’ attacking options in what promises to be a defining tournament in North American football history.
