Mo Farsi has said no to Canada, but that doesn’t mean the door is closed entirely.

“It’s true that I’ve refused an invitation from the Canadian national team,” Farsi told La Gazette du Fennec in an exclusive interview.

“For now, I’m not ready to make my decision on which country I’ll play for. I’ll think about it with my entourage and my agents before announcing my decision. It’s a very important decision to make.”

The Columbus Crew right-back was perhaps the most notable omission from John Herdman’s 53-man preliminary CONCACAF Nations League finals roster earlier this month. Given his impressive form, his young age, and his profile, the 23-year-old had been considered by many a shoo-in to make the cut despite Canada being relatively stacked in the right-back department with the likes of Alistair Johnston and Richie Laryea.

Related read: 7 players included on Canada’s Nations League preliminary roster who deserve to make the final cut

When his name was absent, rumours began swirling immediately that Farsi, who was born in Canada to parents of Algerian heritage, had turned down the chance to play for CanMNT.

That is indeed the case but — for now, at least — it’s only temporary while he assesses whether he wants to represent Canada or Algeria for the remainder of his career. The ex-Cavalry FC standout is a former Canada Under-23 international, but he has a big one-time decision to make about his senior allegiance.

He admitted to La Gazette du Fennec that if he chooses Algeria, a dream of his would be to play in the next African Cup of Nations, which takes place in January and February 2024.

Farsi is having a breakout season with the Crew, his first with the senior team after leading Crew 2 to the MLS Next Pro title last year, He has regularly been labelled as one of the best right-backs in Major League Soccer this season by pundits both north and south of the border.

Farsi has played in every single Crew game so far this season, starting all but one of their MLS matches and missing only around 60 minutes of action in total. As well as being a key part of their defence, he has contributed well in attack, assisting three goals.

The Montreal-born man’s form has certainly been impressive. If he keeps it up, he could have a long and fruitful career at both international and club level.

He also discussed with La Gazette du Fennec some of his hopes for the future, highlighting the top divisions of Spain and Germany as attractive potential future destinations.

“The leagues that make me dream are La Liga in relation to the style of play but also the Bundesliga, which I like,” he said. He also revealed that he and his agents have been in contact with clubs in Europe, suggesting that a future move across the Atlantic could be on the cards.

For now, though, most of his mental energy off the field will be devoted to one of the biggest decisions of his career. Canada or Algeria? We’ll find out soon enough.