Farès Chaïbi, the Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder, has returned to the Algerian national team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, ending months of speculation surrounding his prolonged absence from international duty.
The 21-year-old’s exclusion from previous call-ups raised questions about his relationship with head coach Vladimir Petkovic, despite his strong performances at club level.
In an interview with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), Chaïbi dismissed rumors of a rift, emphasizing that his absence was the result of a misunderstanding rather than a conflict.
There was no clash with the coach,” Chaïbi clarified.
I wanted to understand why I wasn’t being selected despite performing well for my club. I took the initiative to speak directly with Coach Petkovic, and it was a very constructive discussion.
Chaïbi described the conversation as an opportunity to clear up misconceptions.
We were able to burst an abscess that didn’t exist.
It was simply a matter of communication. I’m grateful to the coach for his openness and support,” he added.
The midfielder’s return coincided with Algeria’s recent victory over Liberia in the AFCON qualifiers, signaling a fresh chapter for both player and team.
His reintroduction strengthens a squad that is building momentum ahead of the continental tournament.
At Eintracht Frankfurt, Chaïbi has consistently showcased his skill, earning praise for his versatility and technical ability in midfield.
His performances in the Bundesliga have made his return to the Fennecs a highly anticipated development among fans and pundits alike.
Looking ahead to the 2025 tournament, Chaïbi is optimistic about making a significant contribution to Algeria’s campaign.
“I’m fully focused on helping the team succeed,” he said.
“Regaining my place means a lot, and I’m determined to work hard to be an important part of this squad.
With the misunderstanding resolved and his place in the national team restored, Chaïbi’s focus is now on delivering results on the pitch.
His return adds depth and creativity to Algeria’s midfield, bolstering their chances as they aim for success in the upcoming AFCON.
The reconciliation between Chaïbi and Petkovic also highlights the importance of direct communication in managing player-coach relationships, ensuring a united front as Algeria prepares for a competitive year ahead.
