Spain youth star Yanis Senhadji commits international future to Algeria

Spain youth star Yanis Senhadji commits international future to Algeria

The 21-year-old Senhadji was born and developed in Spain but remains eligible to represent Algeria through his parents. He previously featured prominently in Spain's youth setup, making 12 appearances and scoring three goals.

His biggest achievement came two years ago when he helped Spain lift the European Under-19 Championship, making his eventual decision to switch allegiance particularly notable.

According to DZfoot, as reported by Africa Soccer, Senhadji has now chosen to represent Algeria, ending his association with Spain's youth teams.

The decision has generated debate among Algerian supporters because of comments the forward made when he was previously approached by Algeria's Under-20 side.

In March 2024, Senhadji admitted that he had little hesitation in choosing Spain when faced with the decision between the two countries.

"With Algeria, it was for a friendly tournament and with Spain, it was for the European Under-20 qualifiers. When it came to deciding, I did not hesitate to choose Spain because I knew nothing about Algeria and because I was excited by the idea of playing with the best Spanish players of my age," he said at that time.

Those comments have now returned to the spotlight, with some supporters drawing comparisons between Senhadji and Yacine Adli, who also opted to pursue his international career with France before Algeria later closed the door on him.

At club level, Senhadji is hoping for a fresh start after a frustrating period.

The striker joined Real Jaen on a one-year contract at the end of August after leaving Betis Deportivo as a free agent.

His development has been hampered by injuries, particularly a torn meniscus that kept him out from February until November 2025.

He made only 12 appearances last season and did not start any of those matches.

Senhadji was again left on the bench during Real Jaen's 3-0 away victory over CE Europa last Sunday.

Now, with a new club and an international future with Algeria, the forward will look to put his injury problems behind him and rediscover the form that previously made him a European champion with Spain.
 

Related News

Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe headline 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist

Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe headline 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist

  • 3 days ago

Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Kylian Mbappe headline the 30-player shortlist for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, with the winner to be announced at the ceremony in London on October 26.

Algeria announce Hemdani as new coach ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Algeria announce Hemdani as new coach ahead of AFCON 2027 qualifiers

  • 5 days ago

Algeria have revealed Brahim Hemdani as the new head coach of the national team ahead of the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers this month.

Marcos Llorente calls time on Spain career after World Cup glory

Marcos Llorente calls time on Spain career after World Cup glory

  • 8 days ago

Marcos Llorente has retired from international football at the age of 31, bringing his Spain career to an end after 27 appearances.

Marc Cucurella officially unveiled as Real Madrid player

Marc Cucurella officially unveiled as Real Madrid player

  • 17 days ago

Marc Cucurella has officially been unveiled as a Real Madrid player, with the Spain international saying he is excited to experience the Santiago Bernabeu from inside the club rather than as an opponent.