Hicham Boudaoui will not be part of Algeria’s first national team gathering at Sidi-Moussa (May 25–31). However, the Algerian Football Federation has granted him special dispensation — his club Nice needs him for a critical Ligue 1 relegation playoff.
Algeria’s standout midfielder will be absent from the national team’s opening training camp at the Sidi-Moussa technical center, scheduled from May 25 to 31. The reason is straightforward: Boudaoui is required to remain with OGC Nice, who face a high-stakes Ligue 1 relegation playoff on May 26 and 29. The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has officially authorized his absence, acknowledging his contractual obligations to his club during this critical period.
The stakes for Nice could not be higher — the club is fighting to preserve its top-flight status in French football, and Boudaoui is a key figure in their survival bid. Once the playoff ties are concluded, the Constantine-born midfielder is expected to link up with the Greens for the remainder of their international schedule. The FAF has moved to reassure fans: this is a logistical decision, and Boudaoui remains very much part of Algeria’s plans going forward.