Algerian national team supporters are eagerly awaiting news on the return of captain Riyad Mahrez to the squad for the upcoming June camp, under the helm of Swiss manager Vladimir Petković.
Mahrez missed the March camp and consequently did not participate in the friendly matches against Bolivia (3-2) and South Africa (3-3) due to lack of preparation. This was poorly received by many, fueling rumors of a possible international retirement for the Al-Ahli star in Saudi Arabia.
Exclusive sources revealed to winwin website that Vladimir Petković has not yet finalized the Algerian national team roster and has not decided whether to include Riyad Mahrez for the upcoming camp. He wishes to take more time before making a decision on this matter, especially considering he has numerous options and players capable of playing on the right side of the attack to compensate for Mahrez’s absence, although the latter has recently shone with his club Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.
The same sources indicated that the “Fennecs” coach plans to have an important discussion with the former Manchester City star to address several aspects, primarily his readiness to return to the national team. Based on this discussion, Petković is expected to make a decision on Mahrez’s case, which has sparked much debate among Algerian supporters.
It is worth noting that Petković had informed his inner circle that he would only call up Riyad Mahrez if the latter expressed his desire to continue his international career and showed that he was fully prepared, especially mentally, to contribute to the national team, which is gearing up for significant challenges in the qualifications for the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.
According to WINWIN media, Petković and his assistants were entirely satisfied with the players’ performance in the last two matches against Bolivia and South Africa. They have decided to continue to trust almost the same players, excluding some, as the Swiss coach has decided to call up a maximum of 25 players instead of 31, as was the case in the last March camp.
Vladimir Petković is expected to unveil the Algerian national team roster for the upcoming camp on May 28 or 29, after his return to Algiers to begin serious preparations for his first official engagements at the helm of the 1990 and 2019 African champions.
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