Vladimir Petkovic, since taking over the helm of the Algerian national team, has shown a different approach from his predecessor Djamel Belmadi, emphasizing the integration of local talents from the domestic league. Could this strategy foster greater inclusion of these players within the national team?
Recently, Petkovic attended an Algerian Cup match between USM Alger and RC Bougaa, observing the performances of goalkeeper Osama Benbot and defender Zinedine Belaïd, both regularly called up to the national team. He also paid attention to young central defender Abdessamad Bounacer, only 19 years old.
The surveillance of the local league continues, with Petkovic present in Oran to watch the Algerian Cup match between CS Constantine and ES Ben Aknoun. He also took the opportunity to attend training sessions at MC Oran. On his way back to Algiers, Petkovic stopped in Chlef to visit the players at the Boumezrag stadium.
The increase in the presence of local players in the national team is part of the requirements of Petkovic’s contract with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF). FAF President Walid Sadi emphasized that Petkovic must spend 21 days a month in Algeria supervising local players, thus avoiding their marginalization, sometimes observed under Belmadi’s era.
This approach should promote a greater presence of local players in the national team. Petkovic’s active involvement in monitoring their performances could offer them more opportunities to represent Algeria internationally. Moreover, it could encourage young talents to excel and attract the attention of the national team coach.
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