Vladimir Petkovic prepares Algeria squad with potential new faces for March camp

Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic is finalising his squad for the national team’s March training camp, with reports suggesting the core of the team will remain largely unchanged while a few new players could be given an opportunity.

The Algerian manager is expected to maintain the backbone of the current squad while using the camp to assess emerging talent ahead of future competitions, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

During the international window, the Algeria national football team are scheduled to play two friendly matches in Italy.

The first will be against Guatemala national football team on 27 March at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa. Four days later, Algeria will face Uruguay national football team at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.

Potential first call-ups under consideration

Among the players being considered for inclusion is Fares Ghedjemis, a right winger who plays for Frosinone Calcio.

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a strong campaign in Serie B, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists in 29 league matches. He has also appeared once in the Coppa Italia.

Another potential newcomer is goalkeeper Melvin Mastil of Stade Nyonnais, who plays in Switzerland’s second division. Mastil could be one of three goalkeepers included in the squad, alongside Luca Zidane of Granada CF.

In attack, Petkovic is reportedly deciding between two players for a possible call-up. One option is Nadir Benbouali, currently playing for ETO FC Győr, who has recorded 15 goals and four assists in 32 matches across all competitions this season.

Another contender is Amine Chiakha, a 20-year-old forward on loan from FC Copenhagen to Rosenborg BK. Chiakha has already made an early impact, scoring in a Norwegian Football Cup match against Bryne FK.

Experienced striker may miss out

Reports also indicate that veteran striker Baghdad Bounedjah, who currently plays for Al-Shamal SC, might not be selected for this training camp.

The decision is believed to be linked to the coaching staff’s intention to give younger forwards more opportunities.

However, his possible absence does not necessarily signal a permanent exclusion, as the staff still recognise his experience and qualities.

Alongside the potential newcomers, several established players are expected to remain part of the squad. These include captain Riyad Mahrez of Al-Ahli Saudi FC, defender Aïssa Mandi from Lille OSC, and midfielder Ibrahim Maza of Bayer 04 Leverkusen.

The upcoming training camp is expected to help Petkovic evaluate both experienced players and potential newcomers as Algeria continue preparations for future international competitions.