CAN 2025 – Algeria: Salah Assad defends Ramiz Zerrouki

Africa 23 December 2025 at 06:00

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI

News Editor

Salah Assad's comments cast a calming light on the often misunderstood role of Ramiz Zerrouki. The living legend of the Algerian national team reminds us that in midfield, the essentials aren't always measured by stats, but by the ability to deliver answers in the critical moments of a match.

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"Zerrouki is a good player, a real asset. He's someone you can count on in tough times," Assad asserts,

emphasizing his game intelligence and discipline.

"He puts in the defensive work and provides solutions for the ball carriers," he points out.

Responding directly to the critics, his assessment pulls no punches:

"When I see people criticizing Zerrouki, I say he's a very good player with real qualities. Maybe they just aren’t always so obvious..."

A discreet profile, but a crucial piece in the team's balance.

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