Why has Algeria called up Abderrahmane Rebbach despite his lack of goals and assists?

Abderrahmane Rebbach will make his Algeria debut against Togo in the third and fourth rounds of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, despite having no goals or assists for Deportivo Alaves this season.

The decision by manager Brahim Hemdani is likely to attract scrutiny, although Rebbach’s first act after receiving the call-up showed how much the opportunity means to him.

The 28-year-old was the first player to arrive at Algeria’s National Technical Centre in Sidi Moussa on Sunday. Born in Blida before moving to Spain at the age of 12, Rebbach has been waiting a long time for his chance with the national team.

His club numbers, however, do not immediately explain his selection.

Rebbach started Deportivo Alaves’ first 11 La Liga matches of the season and has played 849 minutes. He has yet to score or provide an assist, a significant drop from last season, when he registered two goals and six assists in 33 appearances.

That record is a curious one for an attacking player expected to add pace, creativity and directness to Algeria’s squad.

His recent form has also raised questions. Rebbach was substituted before the hour mark against Malaga and again during the 6-1 defeat by FC Barcelona. He then began Friday’s match against Sevilla on the bench. His coach described that decision as tactical, but it suggested that his place in the team is no longer guaranteed.

Hemdani nevertheless chose Rebbach as one of two new additions to his squad, alongside Mohamed Azzi, leaving out Ilan Kebbal to make room.

A manager’s assessment, though, is not based solely on goals and assists. Rebbach remains a regular player in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues, and 11 consecutive La Liga starts cannot be dismissed simply because his attacking figures are blank.

The Alaves winger offers width, speed and the ability to maintain his effort on the left flank. His work without the ball and familiarity with Spanish football may also fit Hemdani’s requirements for players who can follow tactical instructions, press effectively and contribute to the team’s overall balance.

Rebbach can operate at different positions and depths on his side of the pitch. That flexibility gives Algeria an alternative to Adil Boulbina, who is more naturally drawn towards goal, and Mohamed Amine Amoura, whose main strengths are displayed when attacking space behind the defence.

Hemdani appears to have selected a role rather than simply rewarding statistical output.

At 28, Rebbach is not a young prospect being given several years to develop internationally. He is entering a stage of his career when he must provide an immediate contribution.

His lack of end product could be offset if he can create openings, win fouls and make life easier for Algeria’s forwards. But an international winger will ultimately be judged on his effectiveness, making this call-up both a reward and a test.

A few minutes against Togo may be enough for Rebbach to show why Hemdani looked beyond his numbers. He has already made Algerian football history in La Liga by matching a record held by Rabah Madjer. After arriving first at the national-team camp, he must now make sure he is not late on the pitch.