Khalis Merah already crystallizes tensions. At only 18 years old, the relaying environment of Olympique Lyonnais stirs up lusts on both sides of the Mediterranean. His mature ball at the foot and his technical ease make it one of the revelations of this start to the season in Ligue 1. But beyond his sports performances, it is his international future that is debated.
Algeria has a first refusal
According to the Fennec Gazette, the Algerian Football Federation contacted the player's entourage to consider a change in sporting nationality. The objective was clear: to integrate Khalis Merah into the Algerian young people of young people. But the response of the player's father showed the hopes of the Fennecs:
“It is up to my son to decide. »» A position deemed legitimate on the French side, but perceived as a mark of distance by the FAF.
Faced with this unusual response, the Algerian body decided not to insist. Leaders prefer to bet onr “players determined to join the Fennecs Rather than indecisive talents. A strategy that could turn against them if the player finally leans towards Algeria in a few years.
France takes the opportunity
Taking advantage of this hesitation, the French Football Federation was quick to react. During the international break in September, the Blueberries summoned Khalis Merah for two friendly matches with the U19. This time, unlike the U20 World Cup, OL could not oppose it. The young environment therefore worn the tricolor jersey, strengthening the link with the French team.
This case perfectly illustrates the recurring tensions between the two federations around the binationals. After Mahrez, Cherki or Aouar, Merah embodies the new generation torn between two identities. His entourage wishes to give him time to mature his decision. But the more he will wear the French jersey, the more difficult it will be for Algeria to recover it.
