Noureddine Zekri says he is ready to coach Algeria

Algerian coach Noureddine Zekri has declared that he is the best candidate to take charge of the Algeria national team as uncertainty continues to surround the future of head coach Vladimir Petkovic.

The debate over Petkovic’s position has intensified following Algeria’s elimination in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) yet to announce whether the Bosnian coach will remain in charge.

Although the National Technical Committee has reportedly recommended that Petkovic continue as head coach with changes to his backroom staff, the federation has not confirmed a final decision.

The delay has fuelled speculation over who could lead the Desert Foxes into the next phase of their international campaign.

Among those to publicly express an interest in the role is Noureddine Zekri, who believes he is the most suitable candidate to succeed Petkovic if the position becomes available.

Zekri’s comments come at a time when discussions over the future of the national team remain active, with supporters divided over whether the current coach should be retained.

A section of Algeria’s fan base has continued to call for Petkovic’s departure, pointing to the team’s early exit from the World Cup and expressing concerns about the side’s style of play under his leadership.

Despite those criticisms, no official decision has yet been communicated by the Algerian Football Federation.

Several names have emerged in recent weeks as possible alternatives.

Former Mali head coach Éric Chelle has been linked with the position, while former Algeria international Antar Yahia has also been mentioned as a potential candidate.

However, no agreement has been reached with either individual, leaving the coaching situation unresolved.

Against that backdrop, Zekri has now openly presented himself as the coach he believes is best equipped to lead the national team.

His intervention adds another dimension to an already active debate as the federation considers its next move following the disappointment of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The uncertainty has ensured that speculation over Algeria’s coaching position continues, with supporters and observers awaiting clarity from the FAF.

For now, Petkovic officially remains in charge, while the recommendation from the National Technical Committee and the absence of a final decision mean discussions over the future direction of the Desert Foxes are still ongoing.

Until the federation announces its verdict, the names of Zekri, Éric Chelle and Antar Yahia are likely to remain part of the conversation surrounding one of African football’s most closely watched coaching situations.