Rayan Ait-Nouri is expected to resolve his dispute with Algeria manager Brahim Hemdani and could return to the squad for the November international break.
The Manchester City defender was left out of the national team after a disagreement with Hemdani’s staff, but the latest reports suggest the matter is close to being settled.
According to journalist Hafid Derradji, a meeting is due to take place soon between Federation algerienne de football (FAF) president Walid Sadi and Hemdani. The same source says the dispute could be formally brought to an end, with Ait-Nouri expected to apologise to the coaching staff.
The staff are reportedly prepared to accept those apologies, allowing both sides to move forward on a new footing.
A reconciliation would suit both parties. At 25, Ait-Nouri remains one of the most talented players in the Algeria squad, while the Fennecs would benefit from regaining a defender of his ability.
The former Wolverhampton full-back has also played very little at the beginning of this season, meaning a return to international football could help him rebuild his confidence.
The possible resolution marks a significant change after several weeks of tension surrounding the player’s position with Algeria.
The dispute began on 25 September during Algeria’s 3-1 victory over Zambia, Hemdani’s first official match in charge. Ait-Nouri started on the bench and showed his frustration after being sent out to warm up without eventually being brought on.
Footage of the defender appearing unhappy on the substitutes’ bench, including exchanges with manager Moussa Saib, was widely shared on social media.
The following day, Hemdani decided to remove Ait-Nouri from the squad, with the FAF confirming the decision. The Manchester City player subsequently missed Algeria’s matches against Burundi and Niger.
Several accounts then emerged about the cause and seriousness of the disagreement. Ait-Nouri’s father had referred to previous tensions involving Antar Yahia, while the coaching staff were reported to have made the player’s return conditional on an apology.
Asked about the situation on Tuesday, Hemdani declined to add to the speculation. He said the matter would be handled with judgement and that any decisions would be announced at the appropriate time.
That response indicated the situation had not been permanently closed, and the latest information points towards an easing of tensions.
If the reconciliation is completed, Ait-Nouri could be recalled by Algeria in November. His return would still need to be officially confirmed by the FAF and the manager.