Chiakha aims for Slimani's record upon return to Algeria squad

Author of 14 goals and 3 assists in 22 matches with Rosenborg this season, Amin Chiakha made his return to the Algeria squad during September’s international break, after being sidelined by Vladimir Petkovic for 2026 World Cup qualifying. New coach Brahim Hemdani reopened the door for him, and the 20-year-old striker wasted no time in making his intentions clear.

“I want to go far with Algeria, score many goals and become the best scorer in the history of the national team,” Chiakha said in the mixed zone. A statement that takes on full meaning when measured against the mountain he must climb: Islam Slimani sits at the top with 46 goals in 105 appearances, while the Copenhagen native has yet to score in three appearances for the Fennecs.

The 1.92m striker fully acknowledges the gap between his stated ambition and the ground covered. “When you lose a bit of morale in a career, you have to talk with people who love you and see potential in you. Rosenborg helped me and I worked very well thanks to them. With hard work, everything is possible,” he explained, citing the confidence he has regained at the Norwegian club.

On his non-selection for the World Cup, Chiakha prefers to turn frustration into fuel. “Today, it’s a new page after the disappointment of the World Cup. It’s a source of motivation for me. I want to show my potential with the national team: my abilities, my pressing and my goals. I want to show who Amin Chiakha really is.”

The Denmark-trained player must first establish himself in an Algeria squad being rebuilt under Hemdani before he can contemplate historical records. But the clarity of his ambitions, expressed upon his return, sets the tone for a striker intent on making an impact in the new era of the Fennecs.