Raúl Alonso Sanguino was appointed as the new coach of the Algerian national handball team on Tuesday. The announcement was made during a press conference held at Nelson Mandela Stadium in Baraki. Sanguino stated his primary goal is to rebuild a competitive team capable of returning to prominence and challenging top-tier national teams at the highest level. He emphasized his determination to work with rigor and professionalism to restore the Algerian team's luster, which was once a prominent force in handball. Sanguino added that the initial phase of his work would focus on observation and scouting, including a full assessment of players' physical and technical levels to form a clear picture of the squad. He aims to benefit from the best practices of different schools and adapt them to the Algerian team's specifics to forge a team with an Algerian spirit. Achieving results, he noted, first requires building a solid foundation within the group by ensuring stability and continuity, which will be the basis of his project with "the Greens."
Strategic Vision and Approach
Raúl Alonso Sanguino indicated that the initial phase of his work would prioritize assessment and scouting, involving a full evaluation of players' physical and technical levels. He affirmed that achieving positive results necessitates establishing a solid foundation within the team, ensuring stability and continuity among the players. Sanguino cited influences from both the Spanish and German handball schools. He stated, "He seeks to benefit from the best of both schools and adapt it to the specifics of the Algerian national team to form a team with an Algerian spirit." The national team currently comprises professional players competing in various European championships. Sanguino will collaborate with a local technical staff, which includes former internationals Abdelghani Loukil as assistant coach and Soufiane Lemam as goalkeeping coach.
Contract and Immediate Goals
The Spanish coach, Raúl Alonso Sanguino, has signed a two-year contract with the Algerian Handball Federation. Sanguino stated that his fundamental mission involves creating cohesion between local and professional players to build a balanced and competitive squad. He added, "He seeks to benefit from the best of both schools and adapt it to the specifics of the Algerian national team to form a team with an Algerian spirit." Preparations for the Mediterranean Games, scheduled for August in Taranto, were also mentioned as an immediate goal. Sanguino expressed confidence in his timeline, stating, "He has enough time to prepare a strong and competitive team before the Games in Taranto."
Building a Competitive Future
Raúl Alonso Sanguino's primary objective is to rebuild a competitive team capable of returning to the forefront of international handball and challenging top-tier national teams at the highest level. The new coach aims to foster a cohesive unit by integrating players and adapting tactical approaches. He also intends to draw from diverse coaching philosophies, specifically mentioning influences from Spanish and German handball schools. Sanguino stated, "He seeks to benefit from the best of both schools and adapt it to the specifics of the Algerian national team to form a team with an Algerian spirit." This approach shows his commitment to creating a distinct identity for the Algerian squad while leveraging proven strategies.