Maxime Lopez Opens Door to Algeria Call-Up: ‘If They Call Me, I’ll Go!’

In a candid revelation, French-born midfielder Maxime Lopez has publicly expressed his readiness to represent Algeria on the international stage for the first time. The 27-year-old Paris FC player, whose mother is Algerian, has long been linked with the Fennecs but had previously held ambitions of playing for France.

A Shift in International Ambitions

During a remarkably frank interview with Canal +, Lopez addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his national team future. “Of course, if Algeria’s national team ever calls me up, I’ll go!” he declared. “My mom is Algerian. People will say I’m opportunistic, that there’s the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup, but I think even in a season without either, I would have gone.”

The midfielder, whose brother Julien was a former France U17 international, emphasized that his potential decision stems from a deep-seated competitive drive rather than mere convenience. “I’m a competitor and I want to play for a National Team too!” he asserted, putting to rest any doubts about his motivation.

Breaking the Silence on Previous Contact

Lopez provided crucial context for his previous focus on the French national team, revealing a simple but telling reason for his past stance. “Some will say I’ve been talking about the French team for years… Honestly, I’ve always spoken about France because I was never contacted by Algeria about this!”

In a significant development, the midfielder confirmed that the communication landscape has recently changed. “Recently, at least, I was contacted to find out where I stood,” Lopez disclosed, marking a potential turning point in his international career prospects.

The ball now appears to be in the court of the Algerian Football Federation. As Lopez succinctly put it: “If they ever call me up, I’ll go, but now we’ll see what happens in the future.”

Source: DZfoot