Rayan Cherki, the prodigy of Olympique Lyonnais, has still not made a public choice concerning the national team he wishes to represent. Between Algeria, France and Italy, the 21-year-old remains silent. His exceptional performances at the start of the season with OL are attracting attention, and the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has already started discussions to try to convince him. However, Algerian supporters insist: it is up to the player to take the first step.
The FAF will not force Rayan Cherki to choose the Algerian jersey. Everything must be done through the desire and personal conviction of the player. For many supporters, this desire must translate into a clear sign, a public declaration, before continuing talks with the player trained at the Lyon academy.
On social networks, notably on X (formerly Twitter), there are numerous calls for Cherki. Algerian supporters dream of seeing him wear the colors of his mother's country, but everyone agrees that a player who does not feel attached to his origins has no place in the green jersey.
No preferential treatment
As we indicated last November, for Vladimir Petkovic no question of offering him the World Cup 2026no player will be preferred to the detriment of those who have contributed to possible qualification for the 2026 World Cup. And Cherki wishes to participate in this competition under the Algerian colors, he will have to decide before the end of the qualifiers. Beyond that, its integration will have to wait until after the World Cup.
The month of March could be decisive, both for the ambitions of Algeria that for the international future of Cherki. The young Lyonnais will then have to make a choice, whether it is Algeriaof the France or a lesser degree of Italy. In the meantime, Algerian supporters on their side only ask for good faith, ready to respect his decision, whatever it may be.
Info LGDF/Rayan Cherki – Algeria: Status and ultimatum
France
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