Rabat – The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) confirmed on Monday the immediate departure of national team head coach Vladimir Petković.
The decision comes shortly after the conclusion of Algeria’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. Despite entering the tournament with momentum after extending Petković’s contract through 2028, the Desert Foxes were eliminated in the Round of 32 following a 2-0 defeat against Switzerland.
The FAF expressed its “profound gratitude” toward the 62-year-old manager and his coaching staff “for their professionalism, engagement, and dedication during their twenty-nine months at the helm of the national team.”
The federation extended “its sincere thanks for the work accomplished” while wishing Petković and his technical team “every success in the continuation of their professional careers.”
Petković was appointed in March 2024, succeeding long-serving manager Djamel Belmadi.
During his time in charge, he oversaw a notable squad transition, steering Algeria back to football’s grandest stage after missing the 2022 edition in Qatar, while also leading the squad to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
With qualification for the 2027 AFCON kicking off in September, where Algeria is drawn in Group I alongside Zambia, Togo, and Burundi, the FAF officials must promptly name a replacement to maintain squad continuity ahead of continental competition.
