“Algeria is a good team with great players. It has a very large breeding ground which also feeds France and other countries. » This statement from Lionel Scaloni following the draw for the 2026 World Cup did not go under the radar. It’s no secret that the French team owes a lot to its players of Algerian origin, unwaveringly linked to the international influence of the selection since the beginning of the century.
But should we see this declaration as an arrow against the Blues, rivals since the historic 2022 final won by the Albiceleste? In France, many media are wondering about this. RMC writing : “Scaloni spoke about the strengths of the Fennecs, making a connection between the Algerian players and… France, the close enemy of the Argentines since 2022. The Argentine coach did not specify whether he was talking about players of Algerian origin playing in the French team – like Rayan Cherki for example whose mother is of Algerian origin – or in the French championship, in Ligue 1.”
In France, this statement is open to interpretation
The Dispatch evokes a “astonishing statement”and wonders if “Scaloni wanted to deliver a little dig to the Blues, rivals since the epic 2022 final lost by the Tricolores on penalties? ». For DZ Footballthis declaration mainly reflects “the international recognition that Algerian football enjoys today, in particular thanks to its talents trained in Europe and at home. »
The renowned Argentine journalist Agustin Muzzu was amused by this exit by the national coach, which he interpreted as a discreet tackle. In Argentina, this phrase has also gone viral on social networks, where it is often associated with Scaloni “memes”. “ Politically correct », writes one, when a second adds: “Benzema and Zidane have effectively placed France on the world map”. “Scaloni will rekindle this enmity with France”adds another. As a reminder, France and Argentina could potentially meet in the final, once again, provided that both nations finish first in their group.
