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2026-08-12 17:42 UTC → 2026-08-15 21:03 UTC ·
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Algeria ends Petkovic tenure, interim leadership appointed restructures staff amid head coach search
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) confirmed on 3 August 2026 that Following the termination of Vladimir Petković’s contract was terminated by mutual agreement, ending on 3 August 2026, the deal that had been extended to July 2028. Each Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has moved forward with a restructuring of the four members of his technical staff received national team’s management. Petković, who held a salary indemnity, with reports suggesting severance could range record-breaking 2.24 points per game, departed after Algeria’s exit from three months to up to a year’s remuneration. the 2026 World Cup. The federation FAF cited a loss of “serenity, stability and confidence” in the partnership. Petković left after Algeria’s exit from the 2026 World Cup, following a round-of-16 defeat to Switzerland and a loss to Argentina. Despite his departure, Petković maintained a record-breaking 2.24 points per game over 33 matches, the best in FAF history. Media noted possible interest from the Saudi Football Federation regarding his appointment. To manage the transition, the FAF President Walid Sadi has restructured its technical leadership. Former reached an agreement in principle with Moussa Saïb to serve as general manager, overseeing administrative and managerial aspects. Additionally, former national team captain Antar Yahia has been appointed officially signed as interim an assistant coach. The search for a permanent head coach has expanded. While Spanish coaches Félix Sánchez and Rafael Benítez were previously considered, Belgian manager Tom Saintfiet has begun communicating with international players to establish emerged as a squad list. Additionally, Moussa Saïb, new option following a 1990 technical college meeting. Saintfiet’s extensive experience coaching across Africa Cup of Nations winner, has been appointed as team manager and his ability to act as a liaison between players, staff, communicate in French and the federation. While candidates such English are noted as potential advantages. Other candidates under evaluation include Tom Saintfiet, Félix Sánchez, and Rafael Benítez, Roberto Martínez, alongside two confidential candidates from Portugal and José Peseiro were previously considered, the Italy. The federation expects continues its recruitment process to officially name find a permanent head coach between 20 and 25 August 2026. successor.