Algeria weigh Martinez move as manager search deadline is extended

The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is understood to have extended its deadline for appointing a new national team manager to 15 September, while former Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has emerged as a potential candidate.

The revised date comes six days before the next international window, which is scheduled to run from 21 September to 6 October. The federation’s initial deadline expired on 25 August, with no successor appointed following Vladimir Petkovic’s official departure on 3 August.

According to Winwin, the FAF has taken the decision to give itself more time to complete the process after more than three weeks of searching. The move could also allow it to assess a significant change in the race to replace Petkovic.

Foot Mercato reports that Martinez is enthusiastic about the prospect of taking charge of Algeria, known as the Fennecs or the Verts. The 53-year-old Portuguese coach is said to have been attracted by the depth of talent available to the national side and its potential, despite Algeria being eliminated in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.

Martinez would reportedly be prepared to make substantial financial concessions to meet the FAF’s terms. He is also said to be willing to work alongside an Algerian assistant. The federation is believed to have set a maximum salary of €160,000 per month for the position.

Martinez has been without a club or national-team contract since the beginning of July, when he parted company with Portugal. During his time in charge, he led the side to the last 16 of the World Cup, a result described as “only” that stage given the strength of the squad and the presence of world-class players in almost every position.

The former manager has a reputation for identifying teams with considerable potential and is regarded as a formidable interview performer. However, his career has also been shaped by the “gacheur” label after his initial spell in Belgium left some observers believing that the country’s talent had not been fully harnessed.

Martinez had apparently been considered in the aftermath of Petkovic’s exit, although that possibility did not develop further at the time. His name has now returned to the discussion as the FAF weighs whether to pursue a more ambitious appointment.

Poyet talks continue

The latest development comes as negotiations with Gustavo Poyet are reportedly at an advanced stage. Foot Mercato says the former Greece manager is highly regarded by the FAF because of his extensive international experience and his fiery personality.

Poyet’s temperament would represent a sharp contrast with Petkovic’s approach, adding another dimension to the federation’s deliberations. The FAF therefore faces a choice between continuing discussions with Poyet and exploring whether Martinez can be persuaded to take the role on terms that fit its financial limits.

With the new deadline set for 15 September, Algeria’s search is expected to remain unresolved until shortly before the next international break.