Union of Algiers coach Lamine N'Diaye has called on supporters to continue their role as the '12th player' as the club prepares for the new season. The Algerian club is looking to build on a successful previous season, which saw them win both the CAF Confederation Cup and the Algerian Cup. Club management has renewed N'Diaye's contract, signaling continuity at the helm. The club is currently seeking players who possess a high technical level and strong motivation to defend Union of Algiers' colors in upcoming competitions, aiming to strengthen the squad for the challenges ahead.
Building on Success
Lamine N'Diaye has urged the Union of Algiers team to build on the positive dynamic established at the end of last season. N'Diaye, who is 69 years old, joined Union of Algiers in February, taking over from his predecessor. Since his arrival, he has focused on instilling a winning mentality. The focus for the upcoming season is on forming a cohesive group to tackle future challenges, ensuring the team operates as a unified unit. The Senegalese coach is also the former coach of TP Mazembe, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous roles. The club aims to leverage the momentum gained from recent successes to maintain its competitive edge and continue its trajectory of achievement.
Pre-Season Training Camp
Team preparations for Union of Algiers commenced on July 13, incorporating two training sessions daily to ensure optimal physical conditioning and tactical readiness. The squad has seen changes, with some players departing and others joining, including the return of several former club members who are rejoining the club. Goalkeeper Oussama Benbot and Abda joined the group later, following their participation in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, integrating after their international duties. The team is currently focusing on developing its technical, tactical, physical, and mental aspects during these pre-season activities, ensuring a holistic approach to player development.
The club recently played a friendly match against Hammam Sousse, which ended in a 0-0 draw. That fixture occurred on Tuesday in Ain Draham, Tunisia, providing an early test for the squad. Hammam Sousse had recently been promoted to the Tunisian First Division after three years in the Second Division, offering Union of Algiers a competitive opponent. Union of Algiers is scheduled to remain in Ain Draham for a total of nine days for its initial training phase. A second training camp is planned for ten days in the coastal city of Tabarka, allowing the team to continue its intensive preparation in a different environment. The delegation will return to Algiers on Sunday, August 16, concluding their pre-season travels.
Season Ahead
Lamine N'Diaye assumed his current role after replacing Abdelhak Benchikha, marking a new chapter for the club. The team expects to play around fifty matches, or more, during the upcoming season, reflecting a demanding schedule across various competitions. The league is scheduled to commence 11 days after Union of Algiers returns from its pre-season training camps, allowing a brief period for final adjustments. The first league match, against Union of Khenchela, is slated for August 27, 28, or 29. This match serves as preparation for the 2026-2027 season, indicating the long-term vision for the club's development. Union of Algiers aims to manage a demanding schedule across multiple competitions, balancing domestic and continental aspirations.