The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has adjusted its strategic approach regarding the succession of former national team coach Vladimir Petkovic, shifting away from an exclusively Spanish shortlist to widen its search for a candidate with deep familiarity with African football realities, according to recent sporting reports.
Shifting Search Criteria for the National Team
Following the departure of Vladimir Petkovic, the Algerian Football Federation has not yet named a permanent successor. With upcoming fixtures on the horizon, including the start of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2027 qualifiers against Zambia at the Hocine-Aït-Ahmed Stadium and a subsequent away trip to Burundi, the governing body is taking its time to evaluate candidates, as reported by outlets such as Just-InfoDZ.
Initially, the federation’s primary focus centered heavily on Spanish managers. However, internal discussions led by the National Technical Commission have prompted a broader scope. While former targets such as Félix Sánchez and Rafael Benítez remain under consideration, leadership is placing greater emphasis on an applicant’s prior experience within African football, comprehension of the local environment, and broad stakeholder consensus.
Evaluating a Expanded Candidate Pool
The National Technical Commission is currently reviewing approximately ten distinct applications for the post. Alongside Sánchez and Benítez, names like Tom Saintfiet and Paulo Bento figure into the evaluation process. Additional confidentiality surrounds unnamed Portuguese and Italian tacticians who have recently entered consideration, raising the possibility that the eventual appointment could involve a figure not previously linked publicly to the vacancy.
Negotiations remain delicate due to existing contractual obligations tying certain contenders to other clubs or international federations, which impacts both availability and financial terms. Rather than rushing into a hasty choice following a disappointing technical run at the 2026 World cycle, officials are prioritizing a measured, comprehensive vetting process to establish a stable foundation for the upcoming qualification cycle.
Upcoming Fixtures and Preparation
The upcoming international window marks the formal opening of a new chapter for the squad as they prepare to face continental opposition in competitive tournament qualifiers.
Keep reading
