AFCON 2025
Algeria have reportedly reached out to Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle over their vacant managerial job, following the Desert Foxes’ Round of 32 exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Federation of Algerian Football (FAF) contacted Chelle after Vladimir Petkovic’s side fell 2-0 to Switzerland in Vancouver. Petkovic’s future is now in doubt despite having signed a new contract before the tournament began.
Algeria are reportedly unhappy with several of Petkovic’s tactical calls in the loss, including his choice to play without a recognised striker, starting youngster Ibrahim Maza as a false nine. The federation see Chelle as a strong alternative, drawn to his attacking philosophy and his knowledge of African football, built during spells with Mali and Nigeria.
Chelle also has history in Algerian football. He managed MC Oran in the Algerian top flight before taking the Super Eagles job in January 2025, and reports suggest that experience is part of his appeal to the FAF.
Notably, Chelle’s Nigeria got the better of Algeria at the last Africa Cup of Nations, beating them 2-0 at the quarterfinal stage courtesy of goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. The win formed part of Nigeria’s run to bronze at the tournament.
Any move for Chelle would not be straightforward. His Nigeria contract runs until December 2026, and he recently agreed a renewal that also puts him in charge of the Olympic Eagles. The Franco-Malian coach previously turned down interest from Angola after that AFCON bronze-medal finish.
Algeria’s World Cup campaign ended with the added blow of captain Riyad Mahrez announcing his retirement from international football after the Switzerland defeat.
The FAF has not sacked Petkovic, and Chelle has yet to respond publicly to the reports.
