Algerian defender Sohaib Naïr has declared his confidence in making his country’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, insisting he believes in his chances “100%.”

The 23-year-old, currently with EA Guingamp, is aiming to feature in Algeria’s fifth World Cup appearance.

Naïr first earned a call-up to the national team last year for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Botswana (3-1) and Mozambique (5-1), but he did not play.

A torn ankle ligament then sidelined him through the off-season and the opening months of the 2025–26 season, ruling him out of consideration for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Now fully fit, Naïr has returned to top form and regained his place in coach Vladimir Petkovic’s starting lineup.

His inclusion in the extended squad for the upcoming national team training camp highlights his growing role in Algeria’s defensive plans ahead of the World Cup.

Speaking ahead of EA Guingamp’s Ligue 2 match against Amiens, Naïr reflected on his ambitions: “I believe in it 100%, because I know it’s possible. My biggest opponent is myself. If I perform well and continue to do what I know how to do, I have a good chance of being called up.”

The young defender also cited his recent pre-selection for the March international break as a motivational boost.

“It’s motivating. Where I come from, I have a unique background. I take every opportunity I can. I try to make the most of every moment I can spend on the pitch, and I don’t overthink things,” he said.

With his career trajectory back on track, Sohaib Naïr appears poised to challenge for a spot in Algeria’s squad for next summer’s tournament, combining ambition with renewed confidence after a challenging recovery period.