USM Alger: Coach Billel Dziri leaves the technical staff

USM Alger has officially announced the departure of their coach, Billel Dziri, following an agreement for an amicable separation. The decision came after Dziri insisted on leaving his post, despite the club’s management attempting to persuade him to reconsider. According to USMA spokesperson Tarek Ghoul, Dziri felt he might be part of the problem, given that the team had gone eight matches without a victory.

Dziri’s exit follows a turbulent period for the club. He had initially tendered his resignation immediately after USMA’s elimination in the round of 32 of the Algerian Cup against ASM Oran, a 0-1 defeat. However, he later reversed his decision after intervention by the club’s new owner, Serport CEO Djelloul Achour, who sought to stabilize the team during a difficult stretch. Despite this, results did not improve, and the situation culminated in the 1-0 loss to arch-rivals MC Alger in the capital derby, further intensifying the pressure on the coach.

Having been in charge since the start of the season, Dziri, a former USMA captain and Algerian international, leaves the club in 9th place in the Ligue 1 standings. With the 20th round approaching, USM Alger will travel to Béchar to face JS Saoura, facing the challenge of trying to reverse a difficult run without the guidance of their long-serving coach.

This departure reflects the strain of high expectations at USM Alger, a club with a rich history and passionate fanbase. Dziri’s tenure was marked by moments of promise, but a combination of poor results and internal pressures ultimately led to a mutual agreement to part ways. The management now faces the task of appointing a new head coach capable of steering the team back into contention and stabilizing performances ahead of the remainder of the Ligue 1 season.

Dziri’s decision to step down, despite the club’s efforts to retain him, underscores his personal accountability and willingness to take responsibility for the team’s recent struggles. His departure closes a chapter in a season filled with challenges, leaving the club to regroup and prepare for the upcoming fixtures with renewed leadership. USM Alger’s next steps, including the selection of a successor, will be crucial for the team’s aspirations both domestically and in regional competitions.