On Saturday, the TotalEnergies U17 Africa Cup of Nations kicked off in Algeria.
The competition is not part of the FIFA calendar hence clubs are not obliged to release players to participate in this tournament.
However, Algerian under-17 National Team player Younes Benali’s contract has been terminated by his French club, F.C. Nantes, after he decided to join the Algeria team without the club’s approval, reports RMC Sport.
The F.C. Nantes under-17 team was said to be relying on Benali in the final few games of the season.
The youngster has since defended his move to go against the club’s decision.
“This year, I had the opportunity to represent my country, Algeria. It is not given to everyone to represent this country; It is a great pride. I complied with everything I had to do and I was not disrespectful, ” Benali said during a press conference in Algeria. “I made the choice to respect my country and it must be respected.”
He also insisted that his loyalty to FC Nantes was unquestionable.
“Since I was little, I have played for F.C Nantes and as many know, I’m in love with this club…… It’s my favourite club. I have always respected it, since I was little, I did everything there,” he explained.
Benali eyeing World Cup qualification with Algeria
On Saturday, Algeria opened the tournament with a 2-0 Victory against Somalia, and Benali played the entire match.
The four teams that will make it to the semi-finals will automatically book their place at the 2023 U-17 FIFA World Cup which will be hosted in Peru later this year.
Benali has set his eyes on winning the trophy and helping his country qualify for the World Cup.
Today, Algeria will face Senegal in their second game at the tournament. A victory will be enough to see them qualify for the quarter-finals.
