'I said yes' - France lose PSG product to Algeria
Adil Aouchiche of Schalke 04. Photo by Marcel ter Bals/MTB-Photo/Shutterstock (16526820et)
by Austin Ditlhobolo
Sunday Mar 08, 2026. 15:00
Former France under-20 star Adil Aouchiche has officially pledged his commitment to the Algerian national team.
The 23-year-old attacking midfielder, who recently signed with German club Schalke 04, revealed he jumped at the chance the moment Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic reached out.
Interviewed by La Gazette du Fennec, the one-time PSG prospect reflected on his path and reaffirmed his deep desire to represent the Fennecs.
“It was my first contact with the federation. Petkovic had just arrived and wanted to test new players. I was one of them. I said yes to Algeria immediately, without thinking,” Aouchiche said.
“In September, I went to the Algerian consulate in London to obtain an emergency passport. I have been eligible for selection since 2024.
“This approach moved me deeply. My whole family was happy. I’ve been in the preliminary selection process, and I’m continuing to work towards being officially called up.”
The former Sunderland AFC star will be hoping to help Schalke secure promotion back to the Bundesliga and make Algeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad.