"When a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome": Youcef Atal opens the door to dual nationals | OneFootball

"When a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome": Youcef Atal opens the door to dual nationals | OneFootball

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·29 October 2025

"When a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome": Youcef Atal opens the door to dual nationals

Article image:"When a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome": Youcef Atal opens the door to dual nationals

Interview

Youcef Atal delivers a powerful message to dual nationals


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Article image:"When a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome": Youcef Atal opens the door to dual nationals

"When a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome": Youcef Atal opens the door to dual nationals

The issue of dual nationals continues to fuel debate in African football, especially within North African national teams. As more and more players trained in Europe opt to represent the countries of their heritage, the topic is sparking both hope and discussion. In an exclusive interview with Foot Mercato, Algerian international Youcef Atal shared his perspective with honesty and clarity.

A message of openness and solidarity

Now playing for Al Sadd in Qatar after several seasons with OGC Nice, the right-back has already earned over fifty caps with the Fennecs. For him, passion and genuine attachment to the shirt must always come first.

"Everyone is free to choose what they want, but when a player chooses Algeria with his heart, he will always be welcome," he confides.

Atal also emphasizes how important it is to welcome newcomers:

"Since I've been with the national team, we do everything to make every player feel good and integrate into the group. That's what the veterans try to carry on."

The Algerian defender believes that this openness is the key to helping the team progress and reach a higher level of competitiveness.

By highlighting cohesion, respect, and the shared desire to elevate Algeria among the footballing elite, Youcef Atal reminds us that beyond origins and backgrounds, it is the values of the green and white jersey that unite the players. It's a powerful message as Vladimir Petkovic's squad continues to attract more and more talents from the diaspora.

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