Rayan Cherki was relaunched Thursday evening on a question that has been sticking to his skin for several months: does he intend to play for Algeria? After OL's draw against Manchester United in the Europa League, the young Lyonnais was approached by BeIN Sports Mena, obviously well informed about the popularity of the player on the other side of the Mediterranean. And to this question, his answer was as dry as calculated.
Flattered to be followed by the Algerian public, Cherki did not openly say no. But he wanted to recall that he was not the only worthy player: “It should not be followed that me, there are a lot of players to follow”. A message that sounds like a distance. While welcoming the quality of the Algerian team, he above all dodged a clear commitment, suggesting that he still prefers to delay.
Cherki dribbles Algeria… and lets doubt doubt
At 21, Cherki arrives at a pivotal moment. Too old to continue hopes, not yet summoned to the A, he sees the horizon of the 2026 World Cup get closer. And without appeal from Deschamps, the choice of Algeria could eventually stand out. But his speaking shows that he wants to keep his hand on the timing, without closing any door.
France or Algeria? Cherki slices without really choosing
His answer contrasts with other cases like that of Adli, who had clearly said no to Algeria. Cherki plays the watch, just like Akliouche. Perhaps in the hope that a wind turns on the side of Clairefontaine, and that the prospect of seeing Zidane succeed Deschamps encourages him to wait a little.
But it is a risky bet. By tabling the post-deschamps, Cherki could make a cross on 2026. For such a talented player, this postponement would be expensive. And if France continues to ignore it, Algeria could end up getting bored. Between pride, strategy and patience, the Cherki soap opera is far from over.
