Rafik Guitane on His Algeria Football Debut: Ambition, Legends, and the Road Ahead

The world of international football is always buzzing with new talent, and for Rafik Guitane, the moment has arrived to don the revered green and white jersey of Algeria. As the highly anticipated Arab Cup approaches, the 24-year-old midfielder, currently dazzling for Estoril Praia in Portugal, is poised for his first major competition with the Algerian national team. In an exclusive interview, Guitane shares his excitement, aspirations, and deep connection to the ‘Desert Foxes’.

Stepping onto the Field for Algeria: A Dream Realized

Guitane’s enthusiasm is palpable as he speaks about his upcoming debut. “We have a fantastic team, truly capable of winning this,” he asserts with confidence. “Personally, I’m incredibly happy to be a part of it. Representing my country has always been a heartfelt ambition. Whether it was the Arab Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), these were my goals, and now I’m here for the Arab Cup. I feel no pressure; we’re going there to win.” This sentiment perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Algeria football — competitive, passionate, and driven.

Alongside Icons: Learning from the Best

The call-up sees Guitane joining a star-studded Algeria squad, featuring names like Islam Slimani, Yacine Brahimi, Yassine Benzia, and Adam Ounas. For a young player, this is an invaluable experience.

“They are legends of Algeria, and it’s an absolute pleasure to be alongside them,” Guitane beams. “Slimani, the all-time leading scorer for Algeria. Brahimi, we grew up watching his incredible dribbles; he played in the Portuguese league where I am now and is hailed as an amazing player. Yassine Benzia and Adam Ounas were also phenomenal players we admired on TV when we were younger.”

Embracing the Challenge: No Pressure, Just Focus

Algeria famously won the last edition of the Arab Cup, leading to natural questions about the pressure to secure a double. Guitane remains unfazed.

“I’m going into this relaxed,” he explains. “Of course, there’s a certain level of expectation given our last victory. But the most crucial thing is to focus on the team, take each match as it comes, and strive to win again, making our entire nation proud.” This mature approach is vital for any player aiming to succeed in high-stakes international tournaments.

Individual Ambitions: Eyeing the Senior Squad

Beyond team success, Guitane openly admits to personal aspirations.

• “It’s an objective, let’s not pretend otherwise,” he states regarding a potential call-up to the senior ‘A’ team.
• “The competition can certainly help, but I also believe strong club performances will contribute significantly.”
• “Honestly, securing a spot in the ‘A’ team is a short-term goal.”

He believes he possesses the quality required: “I think I have the quality to reach the Algeria A team. But you have to prove it on the field, you have to work hard. That’s what we do every day. We strive to perform well in matches and in these high-profile competitions that will be closely watched.”

The Club Factor: Visibility and Performance

The discussion shifts to the impact of club choice on international selection. While a return to a more prominent league like France might offer greater visibility, Guitane maintains a balanced perspective.

“The reality is, the better you perform at a top club, the higher your chances of being called up to the national team. That’s logical for all national selections. If you’re performing well in your club, wherever you are, you always have a chance,” he says. He references Ilan Kebbal, who received a call-up while excelling at Paris FC, showing that sheer performance can trump club prestige.

Regarding a potential return to France, Guitane is focused on the present. “For now, I’m concentrating on my season. We don’t know what the future holds. I’m trying to be as effective as possible with my club.”

A Deep-Rooted Connection: Choosing Algeria

Guitane’s decision to represent Algeria stems from a profound personal connection, addressing common misconceptions about players born abroad choosing their ancestral homeland.

“Every year, I go to Algeria. I spend two weeks of my holidays there annually. I grew up in France, but I’ve always been attached to Algeria. The choice was natural,” he explains. “As soon as they called, I didn’t hesitate. If they had called before or after, I wouldn’t have hesitated either.”

He understands why some players like Gouiri or Aouar might be labelled “opportunists” due to their youth careers with France. “Growing up in France, playing for France’s youth teams, and performing well often leads people to see us as opportunists. The logical next step for a French national is to play for the French national team. But I always felt Algerian, even when performing for France.”

Dismissing the notion that he chose Algeria because he wouldn’t have a chance with France, Guitane firmly states, “That’s completely unrelated. I feel 100% Algerian. If I had had both options and needed to deliberate, I could understand the suspicion. But Algeria called, and I didn’t hesitate for a second. I’ve been a supporter of the national team since childhood.” He even reveals his Moroccan heritage, stating, “My mother is Moroccan. I could have played for Morocco, but I didn’t hesitate to choose Algeria.” This personal insight underscores the genuine passion many diaspora players feel for their ancestral roots.

Balancing Arab Cup and AFCON Aspirations

The recent debate about players participating in both the Arab Cup and AFCON sparks a question about Guitane’s chances. “You always have to believe,” he muses. “I’m focusing on my football and the upcoming events. I want to perform at the Arab Cup and win it, of course. But it’s not something that worries me. The most important thing is to show my qualities. I’m not calculating.” While a spot in the AFCON squad is uncertain, he remains grateful for the opportunity at the Arab Cup. “I’m already very happy to represent Algeria at the Arab Cup. I take what I’m given. I believe in my destiny; if I’m meant for more, I’ll have more in the future. That’s my mentality.”

Algeria’s AFCON Prospects: A Challenging Path

From an external perspective, Guitane views Algeria’s AFCON chances with cautious optimism.

“We can win it; we have a very good team,” he acknowledges. “However, there are formidable opponents. Everyone is hungry; all teams have strengthened and have strong arguments. There isn’t really a clear favorite in my eyes. The most important thing is to perform well and do better than the last two editions. We believe in ourselves and know we can achieve something.”

The Ultimate Dream: World Cup with Algeria

Looking further ahead, the World Cup is firmly on Guitane’s radar. “Yes, I think about it. I won’t lie, I want to be at the World Cup with Algeria. That’s my objective. I know it will be a long journey, but if we don’t believe in ourselves, who will? I need to continue performing well at my club to get there.”

Overcoming Adversity: A Journey of Resilience

Before his recent ascent, Guitane faced significant setbacks, including two anterior cruciate ligament injuries early in his career. He reflects on this period with humility.

“It crosses my mind sometimes, I won’t hide it,” he admits. “But I believe in God’s destiny. Perhaps this was the right path for me. When I was young… sometimes I tell myself that some players, with just one ACL injury, never came back. Yet, they were talents far superior to mine. I thank God for being here and being competitive with Estoril. I never gave up, even if I wished for more. It’s my destiny.”

Guitane’s Future: Ambition and Growth

What can we wish for Rafik Guitane’s future? “Firstly, winning the Arab Cup would be magnificent,” he concludes. “Continuing to perform at my club, to show even more of my qualities and what I’m capable of. And why not, in the future, play for a more prestigious club.” His journey with Algeria football is just beginning, and with his talent and determination, the future looks bright for this promising midfielder.