Ramy Benkhiat, a former France Under-16 international, has been named in Algeria’s squad for their final preparations before the Under-17 World Cup.

The 16-year-old midfielder, who plays for OGC Nice, is among 23 players selected by Algeria Under-17 manager Amine Ghimouz for a training camp running from 23 October to 1 November.

The tournament will be held in Qatar from 19 November to 13 December, with Benkhiat set to make his first appearance for Algeria at youth international level after previously representing France.

Born on 28 January 2009, Benkhiat has established himself as an attacking midfielder within OGC Nice’s academy. He made a significant contribution during the 2025-2026 season, featuring in 17 U17 National matches, including 16 starts, and recording six goals and three assists.

He has also begun playing for Nice’s Under-19 side.

The club highlighted his attacking impact after he opened the scoring against Lyon-La Duchere in September 2025. Benkhiat found the net again several weeks later in a match against Saint-Priest.

His performances had already earned him international recognition. OGC Nice announced his selection for the France Under-16 side in August 2024, before he decided to join Algeria’s youth set-up.

Benkhiat’s arrival gives Ghimouz another attacking option as Algeria finalise their preparations for the tournament. However, his inclusion in the final squad for the competition in Qatar has yet to be confirmed.

Algeria build towards Qatar

Algeria secured their place at the Under-17 World Cup by reaching the quarter-finals of the 2026 U17 Africa Cup of Nations.

Since then, the team have held several training camps and played a series of international fixtures. Their preparations have included a tournament in Croatia.

The provisional group combines players based in Algeria with youngsters developing abroad. Paradou AC, USM Alger and ASO Chlef are among the domestic clubs represented.

The overseas contingent includes Bilal Daaou of Eintracht Frankfurt, Rayane Wassim Zidane of Bayer Leverkusen, Haroun Seriket and Melwane Zaidi of FC Basel, and Ilyes Mekkaoui of FC Volendam.

Benkhiat’s experience in France’s national Under-17 league and his record in front of goal add further competition for places before Algeria name their final World Cup squad.