Caught between Algeria and Morocco, Rafik Guitane is categorical: "It's Algeria 100%."

Rafik Guitane has a choice. The midfielder, born in France in 1999, is eligible to play for the national teams of Morocco and Algeria. However, his mind is made up, and without a flicker of hesitation. The GD Estoril-Praia player, who plies his trade in the Portuguese league, has eyes only for the Fennecs. He admitted as much to "C'est Vous l'Expert", a show run by the Algerian football website La Gazette du Fennec.

"I'm working to try to get my chance one day. If the performances are good, it will open up, you shouldn't try to force things. (…) All my family is in Algeria, I spend several months there every holiday. I'm very close to my family in Algeria, I visit them every year", says Rafik Guitane. He then continues without beating about the bush: "For me there's no debate about it, it's Algeria 100%. Even if I don't get anywhere with the FAF, I won't choose Morocco. The federation hasn't contacted me, but I know a few players like Ramy Bensebaïni and Ismaël Bennacer".

Using his season to get himself noticed

Last season, Rafik Guitane played 13 games for Estoril (9 starts) without ever making a decisive contribution. However, the player who has been through Rennes and Reims has been totally transformed this 2023-2024 campaign. In 21 games, all as a starter, he already has 4 goals and 3 assists. Those performances could open the door to the Fennecs for him. In the meantime, the attacking midfielder continues to admire them from afar.

"I'd like to be called up and to be competing with certain players. (…) Chaïbi and Ait Nouri impress me, they could become key figures in the national team. I try to follow everyone, and what they're offering is really not bad". Rafik Guitane could also benefit from the national team's current situation to earn a call-up. With Belmadi on his way out, the new coach could tick his name off for the future…