Overview
- The Algerian Football Federation issued a statement confirming a mutual termination of Vladimir Petkovic’s contract after 29 months in charge, thanking him and his staff for their service.
- Petkovic’s spell included 33 matches with 23 wins, a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter‑final place and qualification for the 2026 World Cup where Algeria lost to Switzerland in the last 32.
- Algerian media report the split was settled with a compensation package reportedly worth three months of Petkovic’s salary, though that figure has not been officially confirmed by the federation.
- The federation says it wants a coach from the Spanish coaching school, briefly sounded out Xavi Hernández but closed talks after reports his financial demands exceeded the federation’s ceiling, and will convene its national technical committee to shortlist three candidates.
- Several outlets have reported Saudi interest in Petkovic now that he is free, but the Saudi federation has not confirmed any approach and remains linked to its current coach Georgios Donis for upcoming regional tournaments.