The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has officially terminated its contract with national team coach Vladimir Petković by mutual agreement, the federation announced. This decision also encompasses members of Petković's technical staff, who will be departing alongside him. Sources informed Echorouk that the Federal Bureau, following a Monday evening meeting at FAF headquarters, officially decided to pursue a coach from the Spanish school as Petković's successor. The FAF is expected to reveal the new national coach in the coming days, aiming for a swift transition.
Next Steps and Coaching Search
The Technical Committee of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is scheduled to meet on Thursday at 11:00 AM to discuss three potential coaching candidates. This key meeting will delve into the profiles and suitability of these prospective coaches. The committee includes prominent figures such as Rabah Saadane, Boualem Laroum, Mohamed Maouch, Fouad Chihha, Amin Guemouz, and National Technical Director Ali Mousser. There is a strong consensus within the FAF to pursue a coach from the Spanish school, reflecting a strategic direction for the national team's playing style and development. The federation had previously sounded out former Barcelona star Xavi Hernandez for the role, indicating their initial preference for a high-profile name from the Spanish football philosophy. However, Xavi Hernandez's monthly salary, which exceeds 600,000 Euros (equating to more than 7 million Euros annually), led the FAF to drop his file from consideration, proving to be an insurmountable financial hurdle. While the coaching search progresses, the national team might also play one or two friendly matches during the same period, providing an opportunity for evaluation and preparation.
Upcoming Fixtures and Staff Changes
The newly appointed coach will be tasked with leading the team in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, a critical period for the "Desert Warriors." The team is scheduled to commence their qualification campaign against Zambia and Burundi, with these key matches expected to take place between September 21 and October 6. The upcoming international break will also include a third friendly match for "Les Verts" in addition to their "CAN 2027" qualifiers against Zambia and Burundi, offering further opportunities for team cohesion and tactical refinement under the new leadership. In parallel with the ongoing coaching search, Antar Yahia, former captain of "Les Verts," has been appointed as an assistant coach. The Federation stipulated that Antar Yahia would be granted wide and influential powers within the new national technical staff, showing his important role in the team's future.
Petković's Future and Federation's Thanks
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) extended its sincere gratitude to Vladimir Petković and his staff for their professionalism, unwavering commitment, and dedication over a period of twenty-nine months. Their efforts during their tenure were acknowledged by the federation. Following his departure from the Algerian national team, the Swiss coach, Vladimir Petković, has drew significant interest from several prominent football federations across different continents. The federations of Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and Senegal are reportedly considering signing him to lead either their Olympic or senior national teams. These federations are actively evaluating him as a potential candidate for their coaching positions, recognizing his experience and track record.