Brahim Hemdani is expected to choose between Ramy Bensebaini and Nabil Bentaleb when appointing Algeria’s next captain following the international retirements of Riyad Mahrez and Aissa Mandi.
Bensebaini is regarded as the leading candidate for the armband, but Bentaleb’s inclusion in Hemdani’s first squad has created an unexpected alternative. Several Algerian media outlets had reported in recent weeks that the Lille midfielder would be among the main casualties of the new coach’s plans to rebuild the team.
According to Winwin, Hemdani will decide between the two experienced players, with Borussia Dortmund defender Bensebaini holding a slight advantage.
Both cases are compelling. Bensebaini and Bentaleb are each 31 and have made 85 and 63 appearances for Algeria respectively. Both have also played at the highest level of European football.
Bentaleb made his debut for the Fennecs earlier, in 2014, but his international career has been less consistent. Difficult periods at club level, together with a heart problem that kept him out of football for eight months, prevented him from establishing the same continuity with the national side.
Bensebaini, by contrast, has gradually become one of Algeria’s most dependable senior figures. His sustained presence in the team is likely to account for his narrow lead in the captaincy debate.
The possibility of Bentaleb receiving the armband is the biggest surprise. Reports had suggested that he would be left out alongside Ramiz Zerrouki as Hemdani sought to reshape Algeria’s midfield.
Instead, Bentaleb has been named in the 26-man squad, perhaps helped by his strong start to the season with Lille. The injury suffered by Yacine Titraoui may also have influenced the coaching staff’s plans, although there is no evidence that Bentaleb would have been omitted had that withdrawal not occurred.
His opportunity under Hemdani’s new tenure could therefore begin with a leadership role as well as a place in the squad.
The decision comes as Hemdani establishes a new hierarchy within the Fennecs. Bensebaini offers continuity, while Bentaleb brings considerable seniority and international experience.
Whichever player is selected, Algeria’s next captain is likely to be an established veteran rather than a newcomer to the national team.