The Algerian national team is getting ready to play two important matches in September against Botswana and Guinea, as part of the seventh and eighth rounds of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

According to media reports, coach Vladimir Petkovic's squad may witness surprises, the most notable being the absence of midfielder Ismaël Bennacer, given his complicated situation as he has remained without a team so far.

Recent developments indicate that Olympique Marseille's management has expressed a desire to loan Bennacer for one season during the current summer transfer window; however, his club, AC Milan, has halted the deal, insisting on a permanent transfer for 15 million euros.

The potential absence of a player of this caliber may spark widespread debate among Algerian fans, especially with the approaching date of crucial qualifying matches, amid anticipation of what Petkovic will include in his final squad.