Belhocine Emerges as Frontrunner for Algeria Job
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) has moved Karim Belhocine to the front of the queue to replace Vladimir Petkovic as national team coach, according to reports. Belhocine, a French-Algerian manager with extensive experience in Belgian football, impressed FAF officials with his UEFA Pro Licence, tactical acumen, and dual familiarity with European and North African football environments.
The 48-year-old spent significant time at Anderlecht as assistant and caretaker manager, later taking charge of Charleroi and KV Kortrijk in the Belgian Pro League. His most recent role was as an assistant at Watford in England. On July 4, Belhocine became head coach of Algerian club JS Kabylie, just days before the FAF's interest became public.
Petkovic's Future in Doubt
Petkovic remains Algeria's coach on paper, but his position came under severe scrutiny after Algeria's early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a defeat to Switzerland. The FAF is expected to address his future at an upcoming federal bureau meeting. According to Algerian outlet TSA, federation officials are drawn to Belhocine's credentials and believe he can lead the team forward.
Chelle's Rising Stock in African Football
Eric Chelle had emerged as a surprise name in the Algeria conversation, with reports suggesting FAF representatives made contact with the Franco-Malian coach. His agent, Jibril Oualane, even travelled to Algeria for exploratory talks. Chelle's stock rose after steering Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, then taking charge of Nigeria and delivering a third-place finish at the 2025 AFCON. A previous stint at Algerian club MC Oran also gave him cultural grounding in the country.
NFF Finalises Long-Term Extension for Chelle
However, the interest from Algeria has cooled considerably. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is reportedly finalising a long-term extension that would keep Chelle in charge of the Super Eagles until 2030. Under the proposed terms, his monthly salary would rise from $50,000 to $100,000, and his responsibilities would expand to include oversight of Nigeria's Under-23 Olympic team and a broader role in the country's football development.
Chelle was appointed in January of last year but could not guide the Super Eagles to the 2026 World Cup. However, his overall record across 18 months drew enough praise to earn him a renewed mandate. The contract extension effectively ends any speculation about a move to Algeria.
Belhocine's Path Forward
With Chelle out of the picture, Belhocine now appears set to take over the Algerian national team. His experience in the Belgian Pro League and knowledge of Algerian football, combined with his recent appointment at JS Kabylie, make him a strong candidate to lead the North African side into a new era. The FAF is expected to make a formal announcement after their upcoming bureau meeting.
