Attacking midfielder Ibrahim Maza has reaffirmed his commitment to Algeria, referencing Younes Ebnoutalib’s choice of Jürgen Klopp’s Germany, while establishing himself with Bayer Leverkusen.
Ibrahim Maza spoke publicly in the sports press on Tuesday 20 October 2026 to discuss his international decision. According to Afrik-Foot, the Algerian international attacking midfielder has reaffirmed his unwavering attachment to the Algeria national team, following notable performances in the Bundesliga.
The 20-year-old spoke in direct reference to the case of Younes Ebnoutalib, the Eintracht Frankfurt forward and Germany international of Moroccan origin, who chose Jürgen Klopp’s Germany, the national team coach, over Morocco. Maza, for his part, had committed to the Fennecs back in September 2024.
A choice owned and reaffirmed
In comments reported by Afrik-Foot, Ibrahim Maza said he hopes Jürgen Klopp appreciates him at club level, while insisting that his heart belongs to Algeria. He said in particular: “I hope Klopp appreciates me, but…”.
The remarks come as the youngster is establishing himself this season as one of the key driving forces in midfield in the colours of Bayer Leverkusen. According to Foot Africa, he was recently decisive in the Bundesliga against Freiburg, scoring and providing an assist.
The Ebnoutalib precedent in the background
Younes Ebnoutalib was called up by Jürgen Klopp in his very first squad as Germany head coach, as reported by Afrik-Foot. On the other side, the Morocco head coach, Mohamed Ouahbi, had tried in vain to convince the Frankfurt forward before his final decision.
A situation that contrasts with that of Maza, who had committed his choice to Algeria back in September 2024.
Leverkusen before the Greens
At club level, Ibrahim Maza is establishing himself with Bayer Leverkusen. The Greens are counting on him as a key piece ahead of continental and international fixtures, according to Afrik-Foot.
Algeria’s next national team gathering is scheduled for November 2026 for the qualifiers. Until then, the attacking midfielder will play his next Bundesliga match with Leverkusen this weekend.