Kelyann Bezahaf made an encouraging first start for Olympique de Marseille at Troyes, prompting questions over whether the 20-year-old could soon be considered for Algeria’s senior team.
The right-back was brought into the starting line-up for Sunday’s 2-0 victory because Timothy Weah was suspended. Making his first appearance in Marseille’s professional XI, Bezahaf produced a disciplined display under pressure.
He made two interceptions, recovered six balls and showed a willingness to contribute in attack. His determination was also evident as he dealt with the demands of his first senior start. Both L’Equipe and La Provence gave him a rating of 6 out of 10.
There were occasional lapses, particularly when his enthusiasm allowed too much space to open up on the right, but his overall performance was considered positive.
Born in Martigues, Bezahaf joined the Marseille academy at a young age. He did not begin his development as a defender, initially featuring as a striker before moving to the wing and eventually dropping back to right-back. Andoni Zubizarreta was among those who advised him during that change of position.
His attacking background remains visible in the way he drives forward and delivers crosses. Bezahaf has won the French Under-17 championship and the Coupe Gambardella, while he has also represented Algeria at Under-23 level.
He recently signed his first professional contract with Marseille, keeping him at the club until 2028, after impressing the coaching staff during the club’s pre-season friendlies.
However, one promising appearance should not lead to premature expectations. Bezahaf still needs to demonstrate consistency and establish himself in Marseille’s squad rotation behind Weah.
His most recent Algeria Under-23 involvement under Rafik Saifi, in two friendly matches played in South Africa, did not completely remove doubts about whether he is ready to perform at the highest level. Before he can seriously target the senior team, Bezahaf needs to secure his place with the Under-23s, improve his defensive discipline and find the right balance when joining attacks.
The situation at right-back could nevertheless provide him with an opportunity. Rafik Belghali, who started at the last World Cup, is due to return to the Algeria squad in November after serving his suspension. Behind him, the pecking order remains unsettled.
Saadi Radouani was recalled in September but has not fully convinced, while at 31 he is not viewed as a long-term solution. Brahim Hemdani may therefore wish to assess Bezahaf more closely, potentially calling him up in November and introducing him gradually without placing major responsibility on his shoulders.
A selection in November would represent a gamble. Yet young Algerian players starting regularly for a club such as Olympique de Marseille are uncommon, and Bezahaf’s progress will attract attention. He is also developing alongside Algeria internationals Amine Gouiri and Himad Abdelli at Marseille.
For now, his priority is to build a run of appearances at club level before any possible call-up.