Houssem Aouar sets sights on AFCON glory with Algeria

Algerian midfielder Houssem Aouar. Photo Credit: Al Ittihad Saudi Club

Algerian midfielder Houssem Aouar said he plans to win a title with the national side. The Saudi Arabia-based player was born in France but plays for Algeria after changing his allegiance in 2023.

The former Olympique Lyonnais player told L’Équipe that his aim is to win a title with Les Fennecs.

“Today, the biggest goal of my career is to win a title with Algeria. That would be the Holy Grail. I think we have a good team. The national team is doing well. We are ambitious, and we have a coach (Vladimir Petkovic) who gives us confidence," he said.

"We have a federation that is moving in the right direction. Now, it is up to us on the pitch to give our all for the people, the country.”

After triumphing in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Algeria had two disappointing AFCON outings. But Aouar hopes to change the national side’s fortunes come December 2025, when AFCON kicks off in Morocco.

“First, there is the Africa Cup of Nations coming to Morocco. I have a feeling it is a competition that will be closely watched. For us, the goal is simple: we want to win. It is up to us to prepare well and be in shape at the right time.”

Aouar won the Saudi Pro League with Al Ittihad in his debut season.

The 26-year-old player joined the Saudi side from Italian club AS Roma. Aouar spent a memorable season with the Jeddah outfit, scoring 12 goals and providing four assists.