Published on June 20, 2026 at 6:13 p.m.
The famous British daily newspaper The Guardian presented the 1,248 players competing in the 2026 World Cup. This is a great opportunity to see how LOSC internationals are perceived outside our borders. What about Aïssa Mandi?
The twenty-third edition of the World Cup is in full swing on the North American continent. The first day of its group stage was marked by the slap received by Algeria during its duel with Argentina (3-0). At the heart of his defense, Aïssa Mandi (34) suffered, manhandled at all levels by Lionel Messi, author of a hat-trick.
The Fennecs now find themselves obliged to re-mobilize in order to hope to qualify for the round of 16. To do this, they will need the leader Aïssa Mandi. The latter benefited from a rather laudatory portrait in the columns of the media The Guardian. The famous British media, as a reminder, presented the 1,248 players participating in the 2026 World Cup this summer (June 11 – July 19).
The soul of a leader
From the top of his 119 selections, Aïssa Mandi is held in high esteem across the Channel. It is notably described as
“consummate professional†and of
« leader » whose importance is of capital importance for the group. The English media promotes his history, namely his selection record with Algeria as well as his strong character. He paints the portrait of a strong man, an inspiring player both on and off the field. “He has an important role to play this summer in bringing calm and authority to the young defenders.â€
To underline his way of seeing Aïssa Mandi, The
Guardian is based on statements made by Djamel Belmadi, former Algeria coach. “Aïssa has natural leadership qualities and exerts a considerable influence on the players, both in matches and in training. He’s a good person and a positive presence within the group.”he declared at the time.
But that’s not all, a well-shaped head is also synonymous “Intelligence and good judgment”
on the green rectangle. These qualities demonstrated throughout the 2025-2026 season with LOSC must be demonstrated once again this summer. Algeria will really need it, both against Jordan (06/23) and against Austria (06/28).
