Algeria target Khalis Merah receives public invitation from Melissa Bethi

Khalis Merah has been encouraged to choose Algeria by international team-mate Melissa Bethi after the 19-year-old Olympique Lyonnais midfielder made an impressive start to life in the club’s first team.

Merah, who is eligible to represent Algeria at senior level, is currently involved with France’s Under-20 side. His sporting nationality has nevertheless become a subject of growing discussion, with some supporters already urging him to opt for the Fennecs.

Bethi, an Algeria international who previously spent four years at Olympique Lyonnais, added to that debate with a direct message on Instagram. Responding to one of Merah’s stories, she wrote:

“Will it soon be the same with the Algeria shirt, then ?”

The comment was playful but clear, appearing to invite the young Lyonnais player to consider joining Algeria. Bethi’s time at the club means she is familiar with its environment, although there is no confirmation that she and Merah know each other personally.

Merah is regarded as one of the promising products of the Lyon academy. The attacking midfielder is technically gifted, comfortable in tight areas and capable of creating openings with the ball at his feet. His creativity and willingness to move forward have been among the qualities to stand out during his early appearances.

He has begun to establish himself within the professional squad this season, making three appearances in Ligue 1. Merah has also scored his first goal in France’s top flight, although Olympique Lyonnais were beaten 2-1 away by RC Lens.

That goal demonstrated his ability to make an impact despite difficult circumstances and marked an important step in his emergence at senior level.

His performances have also kept him involved with France’s youth teams, with Merah currently representing the Bleuets at Under-20 level.

Algeria has already shown an interest in the player’s eligibility. The national federation previously approached his father, but that attempt did not lead to a change in his sporting nationality.

Merah must now decide whether he wants to continue his international development with France or become available for Algeria at senior level. For the moment, Bethi’s message has made clear that he already has support from the other side of the Mediterranean.

The decision remains with the Lyon midfielder, who has made a promising start to his professional career while attracting attention beyond France.