England: Saïd Benrahma faces two charges

Saïd Benrahma

Algerian international Saïd Benrahma is set to face justice in England over incidents dating back to the summer of 2023.

According to The Sun, Saïd Benrahma is being prosecuted on two counts related to the ownership of dangerous dogs out of control. The report states that the events go back to July 2023, when the Algerian was living in Hornchurch, East London, while he was still playing for West Ham in the Premier League.

The player's XL Bully is said to have injured a man named Luke Rehbin, while his American Bulldog also reportedly tried to attack him. The footballer, often seen with his two dogs Ghost and Cali, did not appear at Willesden Magistrates’ Court as scheduled, since he is now playing for Neom SC in Saudi Arabia. His lawyers requested an adjournment, stating they did not have all the case materials and needed to consult with a colleague based in Monaco to contact the player. The magistrate agreed that the case would remain in the magistrates' court, rather than being referred to the criminal court.

One thing is certain: Benrahma will have to appear later this month, either in person or via videolink. If convicted, he faces a fine, prison sentence, a ban on owning dogs, or even the euthanasia of his animals.