Naïr: "If I’m here, it’s because I’ve performed well!" (video)

Sep 23, 2026

The new cycle of the national team also presents an opportunity for several players to rejoin the squad. Among them is Sohaib Naïr, who has had a promising start to the season with AS Saint-Étienne and now hopes to capitalize on this gathering to maintain his momentum with the Greens.

“It is an honor to return to the national team. Every Algerian aspires to represent their country. I have started the season well because I was aware of a possible call-up. I am proud and happy to be here. I will give my best as usual,” the defender stated in the mixed zone.

For Naïr, this selection is primarily a reward for his performances at the club level. The player also believes that the entire group is prepared to meet the demands of the new coach, Brahim Hemdani, who has already begun sharing his initial directives. “If we are called up, it is because we have performed well at our clubs. Everyone is ready, and we will see what the coach has in mind. He explained to us during yesterday's session what he expects from us,” he clarified.

Competition is also a crucial aspect of this new gathering. Several players are vying for a spot in the starting eleven, but Naïr views this situation as beneficial for the group. “It’s all fair game. Having competition means we have good players,” he simply summarized.

The defender was also asked about the absence of two iconic figures from the national team, Riyad Mahrez and Aïssa Mandi, who are now retired from international duty. Their absence is certainly noticeable in a group that is beginning a new phase. “It’s special not to have Mahrez and Mandi during the training camps. They are two emblematic players of the team, who have been very important for the national team. They chose to retire, which is very respectable on their part. They accomplished what they needed to do, and even more,” Naïr concluded.

With this new chapter under Hemdani's leadership, the defender aims to continue his momentum and seize his chance with the Greens.

DZfoot