Yacine Brahimi casts doubt on Algeria return despite inclusion in expanded squad

Yacine Brahimi has played down the prospect of returning to the Algeria squad, saying it is no longer his ambition and that opportunities should instead be given to younger players.

The 36-year-old Al-Gharafa attacking midfielder was asked about a possible international comeback by an Algerian journalist after his club’s match. His response will temper hopes that he could feature in the first squad selected by new Algeria manager Brahim Hemdani.

“Returning to the Fennecs is not my ambition. We have to give young players a chance. I hope the new staff will do a good job because they have very good players,” Brahimi said.

His comments are significant because his name had emerged prominently in discussions about Hemdani’s first squad. The new manager is preparing several changes and has appeared open to recalling established players who have not featured regularly for Algeria in recent years.

According to several Algerian media outlets, Brahimi was included in the expanded squad drawn up by Hemdani’s coaching staff, alongside Baghdad Bounedjah and Youcef Belaili.

However, indications had already suggested that Brahimi was unlikely to return for the September international break. His latest comments make that possibility appear even less likely, although they do not completely rule it out.

Brahimi remains an important figure for Al-Gharafa despite his age and wears the captain’s armband. From a sporting perspective, his continued performances meant there was still a case for considering him for international selection.

His position nevertheless appears to fit with the direction being taken by Hemdani’s staff, who are expected to create greater opportunities for a new generation of players.

Changes expected in midfield

Several changes are reportedly being prepared in midfield. Nabil Bentaleb and Ramiz Zerrouki are said to be on their way out of the squad, while Adil Aouchiche, Adil Bourabaa and Himad Abdelli could benefit from the new approach.

Brahimi’s statement should not be interpreted as an announcement of his international retirement. Nor did he say he would reject a possible call-up from Hemdani.

Instead, he made clear that returning to the Algeria squad is no longer a personal objective and that he would prefer younger players to be given their opportunity.

That distinction is important, but his message is still clear enough to cool the speculation surrounding his possible recall. If Hemdani wants Brahimi back in the Algeria squad, the initiative will seemingly have to come from the manager.

Given Brahimi’s apparent lack of personal motivation to return, his inclusion in the final list would therefore be a surprise.