Algerian forward Amin Chiakha has reaffirmed his long-term commitment to the national team, insisting his dream is not only to represent Algeria at the FIFA World Cup but also to help the Desert Foxes secure future qualification if he misses out on the 2026 tournament.
The 20-year-old striker, who belongs to FC Copenhagen and recently spent time at Vejle Boldklub before moving to Rosenborg BK, opened up about his ambitions and emotional connection to Algeria during an interview with La Gazette du Fennec.
Chiakha explained that choosing Algeria over Denmark was an easy decision because of his deep attachment to his roots and family despite progressing through Denmark’s youth national teams.
“First and foremost, it’s family. My family there is in my heart; I call them all the time, I talk to them,” he said.
“I simply love Algerian culture. I love the differences compared to Europe. It’s not that I don’t like Denmark or Europe, but when it came time to choose, I had a very strong connection with Algeria compared to Denmark.”
The young striker also revealed that Danish football authorities attempted to delay his nationality switch after he became an important figure within their youth setup.
“They created a lot of problems for me to prevent me from changing my nationality to Algeria,” Chiakha disclosed.
“They were slow to send my paperwork to FIFA. But they knew I had an important role in Denmark’s youth teams, so they weren’t happy with my decision. They tried everything to change my mind, but in my mind, it was already decided.”
Known for his physical presence and technical qualities, Chiakha pointed to Karim Benzema and Zlatan Ibrahimović as two major influences on his game while also praising Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah for his relentless pressing and work ethic.
“I watched Benzema and Ibrahimović a lot,” he explained.
“I’m a tall, technical striker who loves to score. But when I watched the Algerian national team, I also admired Baghdad Bounedjah because even when he wasn’t scoring, he worked so hard pressing defenders. I like that aspect of the game too.”
Chiakha made it clear that representing Algeria at the World Cup remains one of his biggest ambitions, although he stressed that collective success matters more than personal achievements.
“God willing, going to the World Cup is everyone’s dream,” he said.
“If I don’t go this time, then God willing, I’ll qualify with Algeria for the next one. Like all Algerians, I want to win every match and help Algeria earn another star.”
The striker also emphasised his desire to become a prolific scorer for both club and country while continuing to focus on his development.
“Every time I step onto the pitch, I want to score. I want to become top scorer for my club and the national team. But the collective ambition comes first because winning titles for Algeria is more important.”
Chiakha recently impressed with two goals for Rosenborg and continues to build momentum ahead of the new season. Despite increasing attention around his future, he insists he remains focused on improving every day rather than looking too far ahead.
The young forward also acknowledged the fierce competition for places under Algeria coach Vladimir Petković but maintained full respect for the manager’s decisions regarding World Cup selection.
“We have a strong national team and Petkovic will make his choices,” Chiakha said.
“If he chooses me, thank God. If he doesn’t, thank God as well. He’s the coach and I have enormous respect for him.”
