Vladimir Petkovic backs Luca Zidane as Algeria chase World Cup dream

Vladimir Petkovic has offered strong support for Luca Zidane, assuring Algerian fans that the goalkeeper’s call-up is fully merited.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the national coach was clear about the reasoning behind Zidane’s inclusion after the Eibar goalkeeper switched his sporting nationality to Algeria. The son of Zinedine Zidane had long represented France at youth level, but his choice to play for the Greens has naturally drawn widespread reactions.

Petkovic did not shy away from addressing it. “I think that if Zidane was called up, it’s because he deserves it. I am convinced that with his characteristics he can bring other qualities to the club. Discussing who is number 1 now is premature,” he said.

By highlighting Zidane’s qualities while refusing to fuel debate over the starting spot, Petkovic has shown he wants to maintain balance in the squad.

Algeria face two decisive 2026 World Cup qualifiers next week, against Somalia in Oran on October 9 and Uganda in Tizi-Ouzou on October 14, where Zidane could feature.