Former Algeria national team coach Djamel Belmadi, who stepped down after a notable tenure with the “Greens,” is reportedly grappling with personal constraints, postponing his anticipated return to football. The Franco-Algerian manager, who has been without a team since his departure from Algeria’s coaching helm, remains highly regarded in the football world, yet family responsibilities have taken precedence over a swift comeback.
Insights into Belmadi’s current situation were shared by former Moroccan international Abdeslam Ouaddou, who briefly worked with Belmadi’s staff in 2020.
In an interview with Afrik–Foot, Ouaddou explained, “Today, he is resting. He has family constraints; he is with his family. Sometimes in life, there are more important things than football.
He will soon return to football, that’s clear.” The comments from Ouaddou, a veteran of 68 international caps with Morocco, suggest that Belmadi’s family needs have overshadowed immediate career plans, an aspect he feels must be prioritized for the time being.
Speculation about Belmadi’s return has also linked him to a potential managerial role with Espérance de Tunis, one of North Africa’s most storied clubs, where he was rumored to replace Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso.
However, Espérance has recently leaned toward appointing Michel Der Zakarian, former Montpellier manager, shifting Belmadi’s possible comeback to a different trajectory.
According to sources cited by *Shoot Africa* and the Algérie Football Média account, Belmadi has been caring for his father, who has faced health challenges for several months.
This personal commitment has reportedly delayed Belmadi’s return to active management.
The 48-year-old coach, who once led Qatar’s national team, left the Algerian side following a dramatic fallout with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) and its president, Walid Sadi, amid financial disagreements.
This departure has left Belmadi available in the coaching market, but personal obligations continue to hold him back from considering new offers.
Despite these hurdles, Belmadi’s reputation remains intact, making him a top candidate in African football.
Notably, Belmadi is among a select few high-profile coaches from the continent who are still unattached, alongside Senegal’s former coach Aliou Cissé, who was dismissed earlier this month.
With his experience and track record, Belmadi’s name is expected to feature prominently in coaching discussions once he is ready to return to the pitch.
For now, his commitment to family seems to be guiding his decision-making, with his re-entry into the coaching sphere likely delayed until these responsibilities allow for a focused return.
