Alexandre Oukidja training with Metz reserves and eyeing Algeria World Cup role | OneFootball

After a serious knee injury, Alexandre Oukidja, 37, has not given up on Algeria’s World Cup plans. "This is only my opinion, but I am convinced I have my place in the national team."

"At the start of the year, I spoke with the coach, Vladimir Petkovic, to say I was preparing just in case," he told So Foot. "Why not also support the young goalkeepers, because the national team are still looking for Raïs M'Bolhi’s successor."

Metz are not thought to have ruled out offering him a short contract next season.

"No, I have not really had discussions with Metz for a return. Frédéric Arpinon, the sporting director, simply allowed me to train with the reserves and I am very grateful. Many think I am finished, but I want to continue and prove the opposite."

He left Metz for IMT Belgrade in summer 2025 after losing his place, then returned earlier than expected because of a swift injury. Months of rehabilitation followed, including time at Clairefontaine. Oukidja has seven caps for Algeria and made 211 appearances for Metz between 2018 and 2025.

Algeria’s goalkeeping pool has been hit by injuries, with Anthony Mandrea out and Luca Zidane and Melvin Mastil uncertain. Oukidja has not given up on featuring as an experienced third choice at the World Cup, which runs from 11 June to 19 July.

Source: L'Équipe