A new issue has arisen, causing concern for the Algerian national team coach, Vladimir Petkovic (60 years old).
Indeed, Algerian goalkeeper Anthony Mandrea is facing difficulties in maintaining his starting position at his club, Caen, for the upcoming season. This follows recent statements from his coach, Nicolas Seube, who has opened the door to competition with the team’s second goalkeeper, Yanis Clementia, a move that could complicate Petkovic’s efforts. Petkovic had previously decided to work hard to resolve all issues faced by the “Fennecs.”
The French site Ouest France reported last Tuesday on statements made by Caen coach Nicolas Seube regarding the identity of the starting goalkeeper for the team playing in the French Ligue 2. He said: “The choice between Mandrea and Clementia can be considered a unique and difficult situation. My view is to create healthy competition between the two goalkeepers, but it is certain that we have not yet established the hierarchy of goalkeepers before the start of the championship on August 17.” Seube continued: “I believe that the level of these two goalkeepers evolves over time. Each training session and preparation match makes me reconsider any decision previously made. It is up to them to earn my trust. We must be honest and logical in our decision, whatever it may be, it will certainly be difficult.”
The French site added that, although Mandrea was Caen’s number one goalkeeper last season in Ligue 2 and shone in several matches, his performances during preparations for the new season have raised questions after conceding three goals against Nantes and Annecy, while his French colleague Yanis Clementia conceded only one. This prompted the coach to reopen the competition for the goalkeeper position, which could bring Mandrea closer to leaving the club during the current summer transfer window.
Ouest France revealed that the main reason that might push Mandrea to leave Caen is his desire to maintain his starting position in the Algerian national team. Indeed, if he no longer plays for his club, it will lead the “Greens” coach, Petkovic, to dispense with his services, especially after the mistakes made in recent matches, notably against Guinea last June during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. A source within the technical staff of the Algerian national team told “Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed” that Petkovic had contacted Metz goalkeeper Alexandre Oukidja to persuade him to reconsider his decision to retire, made last year. This approach is also due to the Bosnian coach not being convinced by the performances of his three main goalkeepers, notably Mandrea, Mustafa Zeghba, and Oussama Benbot.
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