At the beginning of this month, national team coach Vladimir Petkovic and the Algerian national team completed a training camp during which they played two World Cup 2026 qualifying matches.
Despite an unexpected defeat against Guinea, the team bounced back against Uganda, allowing Petkovic to meticulously assess his players’ technical aspects.
Enhancing competitiveness
At the end of the camp, Petkovic emphasized the importance of players achieving greater competitiveness at their clubs. He stressed that this condition is essential for national team selection. Petkovic believes that playing at a high club level enables players to gain competitiveness, which is why some players from second divisions in European leagues, like Himad Abdelli, were not called up.
However, Petkovic made an exception for the goalkeeper position, expecting to find a goalkeeper capable of competing for the spot regardless of their club. He also warned players about the importance of seizing every opportunity to play for the Algerian national team, whether in friendly or official matches. He emphasized the need for each player to give their best, as performance with the national team will be a key factor for future call-ups.
Advice to players
Petkovic advised Algerian internationals whose contracts are expiring or who are considering club changes during the summer transfer window to opt for clubs playing at a high level. This advice is particularly relevant to players like Mohamed El Amine Amoura, Rayan Aït Nouri, and Amine Gouiri, who are highly sought after in the summer transfer market.
Facing a lack of offers, Petkovic also stressed the need for Houssem Aouar to resolve his issues with his Italian club, AS Roma, especially amidst rumors of a return to Ligue 1 through OGC Nice.
New challenge for Petkovic
The upcoming September camp presents a new challenge for Vladimir Petkovic, who will begin qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco with his team. Aged 60, Petkovic’s mission is to lead the Algerian national team to qualification for AFCON 2025, aiming for significant success in this continental competition.
Leave a Reply