"Even if Zidane contacts me, my decision leans towards Algeria," this dual-national player chooses the Greens.

At just twenty years old, the midfielder from Olympique Lyonnais has ended the uncertainty. Kaïl Boudache will wear the colors of Algeria, and no one, not even the coach of the French team, can sway him from this decision. In an interview with the regional daily Le Progrès, the young Lyonnais prospect clearly expressed his stance on his international future and the dream that currently guides his career: to participate in the World Cup with the Fennecs.

Kaïl Boudache remains committed to Algeria, even in the face of a proposal from Zidane

The question was asked bluntly: what if Zinédine Zidane, now at the helm of the French team, called him up? His response was concise and definitive: "Regardless, my choice will be Algeria." This commitment is all the stronger as he has already made it official with the Algerian authorities.

This early stance contrasts with the hesitations often seen among dual nationals. It echoes the sentiments of other internationals who have quickly affirmed their attachment, like the former Napoli full-back who stated last March that his choice of Algeria was the best of his life, despite the personal cost.

Regarding his ambitions, they are twofold and fully embraced. "My dream is to participate in major competitions like the Champions League, but also to play in the World Cup with Algeria," he asserted. A World Cup that the Greens experienced this year in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with an opening match against Argentina that drew Zidane and his sons to the stands.

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The Kabyle roots at the heart of Kaïl Boudache's decision

Behind this choice lies a family story nurtured summer after summer. The player explains that he regularly returns to the country, where his family has its roots: "I often go to Algeria, my family comes from Kabylie, and every summer we return to our origins to reconnect with our passion," he shared.

This deep bond with the homeland is a recurring theme among several figures of the Greens. Captain Riyad Mahrez also mentioned these summer returns since his childhood to justify his strong attachment to Algeria rather than France.

Boudache's discourse fits into this lineage. No calculations, no carefully kept plan B. The choice of Algeria was made even before his professional career truly took off.

A rapid progression under the colors of Olympique Lyonnais

Sportingly, the midfielder is progressing quickly. Released after his time at OGC Nice, he joined the Rhône club last summer without a transfer fee. A winning choice so far: his early performances have convinced the coaching staff and the public at Groupama Stadium.

On the international front, the arrangements are already finalized. The player has given his consent to represent the national team and is on the radar of youth team coaches. Called up for the under-23s, he says he is ready to continue the adventure with this age group.

The nearest deadline concerns the U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, a competition that traditionally serves as a springboard to the senior team. Several internationals have taken this path before joining the A team.

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