The lights had barely settled after Algeria’s opening win on the road to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations when Rayan Aït-Nouri’s international camp came to an abrupt end. The Manchester City left-back has been released from the squad with immediate effect following a decision by new Algeria coach Brahim Hemdani.
Key takeaways
- Algeria have sent Rayan Aït-Nouri back to Manchester City during the current international camp.
- The decision was taken by head coach Brahim Hemdani, who is overseeing his first gathering in charge of the Fennecs.
- Aït-Nouri, 25, has collected 33 caps for Algeria.
- The left-back did not play in Algeria’s 3-1 victory over Zambia in 2027 AFCON qualifying.
- Reports in Algeria linked his departure to his reaction after being asked twice to warm up without being introduced.
Coach makes an immediate call
Algeria confirmed on Saturday that Hemdani had decided to release Aït-Nouri from the national-team training camp. The federation’s statement gave no detailed explanation and simply said that the Algeria international would return to his club, Manchester City.
The episode arrives at an early and delicate moment for Hemdani, with this camp marking the beginning of his tenure as Algeria manager. His side opened their qualifying campaign for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with a 3-1 win over Zambia.
Aït-Nouri was not used in that match despite being sent to warm up on two occasions. Footage from the game showed the defender appearing frustrated after he was not called from the bench.
Behaviour reportedly behind dismissal
Local reports said the 25-year-old’s behaviour around the Zambia match prompted the coach’s decision. Algeria have not publicly confirmed that account or set out any disciplinary details.
For Aït-Nouri, the release means an earlier-than-expected return to Manchester City. The full-back’s international record currently stands at 33 appearances for Algeria.
