Algeria consider Brahim Hemdani as new head coach

Algeria are considering Brahim Hemdani for the vacant national-team coaching role, with the former Marseille defender potentially working alongside Anthar Yahia. The proposed partnership would give the federation a coaching structure after months of searching, although the appointment has not been formally confirmed.

Vladimir Petkovic was appointed on 29 February 2024 but was dismissed after Algeria’s 2026 World Cup campaign ended in the round of 32. The Algerian Football Federation has been looking for his successor since early August. Yahia, a former Algeria international, has already been asked to prepare the squad for the September international window.

Hemdani has been in charge of Algeria’s under-20 side since July. He also led the under-21 team to Mediterranean Games gold, Algeria’s first success in that competition since 1975. His previous playing career included a spell at Marseille from 2001 to 2005.

The federation had also explored experienced European candidates, including Rafael Benitez, Felix Sanchez, Igor Tudor and Xavi, but no agreement followed. The next coach will oversee preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with Hemdani and Yahia now emerging as the leading combination.