Said Alik, the General Sporting Director of USM Alger, revealed a new conflict within the club during statements made on national radio on May 22, 2026. Alik directed a message to the club's owner, Sarbour, and the chairman, demanding immediate authorization to exercise his full legal powers. He explicitly stated, "أطالب بتفويض لممارسة كامل صلاحياتي لوضع حد لهذه التدخلات" (I demand authorization to exercise my full powers to put an end to these interventions), indicating interventions he seeks to stop. The sporting director's comments show growing tensions within the Algerian football club's management, brought to light through his public statements on national radio.
Interference in Player and Coach Deals
Said Alik accused internal parties and external entities of attempting to sabotage the deal to secure Senegalese coach Lamine N'Diaye. These accusations highlight a concerted effort to undermine his strategic decisions regarding the team's leadership. The sporting director further revealed maneuvers designed to damage his relationship with former team star Bilal Diziri, alleging that Diziri was contacted to coach the team without his knowledge. This alleged attempt to bypass Alik's authority further illustrates the internal strife. Alik also held the management responsible for the failure to qualify players Ashraf Abada and Imad Eddine Azzi for African competition. He attributed this particular failure to Bilal Nuioua's refusal to sign striker Tayeb Meziani, directly linking the personnel decision to the club's competitive setbacks and noting the chairman's direct role in these issues.
Calls for Support and Future Plans
Said Alik, the General Sporting Director of USM Alger, praised the support received from the Minister of Interior and Transport, Said Sayoud. Alik asserted that Sayoud's backing was key for the team's recent continental cup victory, acknowledging the significant external support. Looking ahead, Alik stated his intention to continue planning for the next season with coach Lamine N'Diaye, aiming to compete for all available titles. This forward-looking statement emphasizes his commitment despite the internal challenges. The sporting director appealed to public authorities, requesting the allocation of a stadium capable of hosting USM Alger's matches and accommodating its fan base. This appeal shows the club's infrastructure needs as it prepares for future competitions and seeks to provide a suitable venue for its supporters.
Context and Chairman's Role
Said Alik accused USM Alger chairman Bilal Nuioua of systematically attempting to diminish his value and encroach upon his technical and administrative powers. Alik stated that the chairman's actions undermined his authority within the club, indicating a deliberate pattern of interference. The General Sporting Director also criticized Bilal Nuioua for reportedly holding secret meetings with players without his knowledge. This alleged conduct by the chairman further fueled the ongoing dispute, indicating a deep division in the club's operational management and a lack of transparency. Alik's claims highlight a power struggle impacting the club's stability and decision-making processes, directly implicating the chairman in the internal conflict.
Director's Demand for Authority
Said Alik, USM Alger's General Sporting Director, characterized the alleged conspiracy against him as a "betrayal." This strong language shows the severity of the internal conflict he described within the club, emphasizing the profound sense of being undermined. Alik's accusation of betrayal suggests a deep-seated mistrust and a perception of deliberate undermining of his role, portraying the situation as a personal and professional affront. His public statements indicate a critical juncture in the club's management, where the sporting director feels targeted by actions he views as detrimental to his authority and the club's interests. The use of such a term reflects the heightened tensions surrounding his demands for full autonomy in decision-making processes, made public on May 22, 2026.
