Algeria has suffered a major setback as Mohamed Rafik Omar has officially rejected a call-up to the national team, opting instead to represent Qatar.
The 21-year-old midfielder, trained in Algeria’s football development system, has asked not to be considered for future selections, according to reports from El Khabar.
Omar, who came through the FAF Academy in Khemis Miliana and later played for Paradou AC, is currently thriving at Al Shamal SC in Qatar.
His decision signals his commitment to the Qatari national team, a move that raises concerns about Algeria losing homegrown talents to naturalization processes abroad.
A Career Choice or a Strategic Move?
The midfielder was included in Vladimir Petković’s extended squad list of 50 players for Algeria’s March 2025 training camp.
However, rather than seize the opportunity to wear the national colors, he declined the invitation outright.
Behind his refusal lies a broader context—his move to Qatar, where he arrived alongside three other Algerian players from Paradou AC in a deal that many suspected was linked to future naturalization prospects.
Having now spent five years in Doha, Omar’s rejection of Algeria all but confirms his intention to play for Qatar’s national team.
A Blow to Algerian Football Development
For Algeria’s football authorities, Omar’s decision is a significant disappointment. A product of the FAF’s youth system, he was once a standout in the country’s U18 and U20 teams.
His talent was nurtured in Algeria, but his potential will now serve another nation.
The situation has also raised questions about the influence of agents and advisors in guiding young players’ decisions.
Observers believe Omar’s representatives were drawn to the Qatari football project, which offers financial security and international exposure, rather than the patriotic call of Algeria.
Looking Ahead
With Algeria losing young, promising talents to football naturalization programs abroad, concerns continue to grow over the country’s ability to retain its top prospects.
Omar’s decision follows a growing trend of players choosing alternative national allegiances, highlighting the challenge faced by Algerian football authorities in keeping their best young players within the national setup.
As Qatar continues to invest in attracting foreign-born talent, Mohamed Rafik Omar’s case may not be the last, leaving Algeria to reconsider its long-term strategy in player development and retention.
