Brahim Hemdani appointed as Algeria national football team coach

Brahim Hemdani has been appointed as the new head coach of the Algerian national football team, succeeding Vladimir Petkovic. Hemdani, who previously coached the U21 side, has signed a contract that is significantly more cost-effective than his predecessor's, with an estimated monthly salary between 25,000 and 30,000 euros.

The new coaching staff, which includes deputy Anthar Yahia, faces high performance-based objectives. Their mandate is tied to reaching at least the semi-finals of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN). Failure to meet these goals could result in the staff leaving their positions without compensation, while success could lead to contract extensions through 2030.

Hemdani’s immediate priorities include stabilizing a defense that struggled during the previous era and managing the transition following the international retirement of captain Riyad Mahrez. His first squad selection is expected soon for upcoming matches against Zambia and Burundi, with reports suggesting potential changes in the goalkeeper position and scrutiny regarding the playing time of key players like Rayan Aït-Nouri and Jaouen Hadjam.