DZWatch Exclusive: Feyenoord Rotterdam coach Robin van Persie has lauded the performances of young Algerian winger Anis Hadj Moussa, following the national team’s recent friendly match against Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at a press conference, the Dutch manager acknowledged the growing buzz surrounding the 23-year-old Hadj Moussa in Algeria, noting the increasing comparisons being drawn with national team captain Riyad Mahrez.
“It’s interesting to see,” Van Persie commented. “I don’t think Hadj Moussa will replace Mahrez right now, because he is a phenomenal player. However, considering Mahrez might be considering international retirement after the World Cup, opportunities will open up for Hadj Moussa in the future.”
Van Persie also addressed Hadj Moussa’s statistical impact with the Algerian national team, praising his technical skills displayed during the Saudi Arabia match. He emphasized the importance of translating those skills into tangible results. “Beautiful touches are great, but they need to turn into goals and assists,” he stated. This emphasis is seen by many as a desire to enhance the player’s impact on both club and country performance statistics.
Furthermore, Van Persie highlighted Hadj Moussa’s noticeable development within Feyenoord, confirming his role as the team’s second captain. He pointed out the player’s improved maturity in decision-making, both on and off the field. “I see him developing leadership qualities every day. He’s working hard to have a greater impact. He needs to stay creative, but he now makes more logical decisions than he did months ago,” Van Persie added.
Van Persie also praised Hadj Moussa’s adaptation off the pitch, noting his acquisition of the English language and participation in media interviews, reflecting growing personal maturity that parallels his technical development.
Van Persie’s comments underscore that Anis Hadj Moussa is following in the footsteps of Riyad Mahrez and has the potential to solidify his position within the national team, both in terms of technical skill and leadership role, making him one of the most promising young talents in Algerian football. DZWatch will continue to follow Hadj Moussa’s progress closely.
