Algerian FA set to part ways with Ali Moucer after just one year as technical director

Algeria’s football leadership structure is reportedly set for a significant change, with National Technical Director Ali Moucer expected to leave his role when his contract expires on June 30, despite the country’s focus being firmly fixed on preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

While public attention remains centred on head coach Vladimir Petkovic’s squad selection and the Greens’ final preparations for the global tournament, reports suggest that an important decision has already been made behind the scenes within the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).

According to information published by local newspaper El Khabar, the federation has decided not to extend Moucer’s contract beyond the end of its current term.

If confirmed, the move would bring an end to his tenure after only one year in charge of the National Technical Directorate.

Moucer was appointed in May 2025 to oversee one of the most influential positions in Algerian football. The role carries responsibility for technical development, youth football programmes and the broader sporting direction of the federation.

His reported departure comes sooner than many may have expected, given the strategic nature of the position and the relatively short period he has spent in office. As of now, the FAF has not issued any official statement regarding his future.

Reports indicate that one of the factors behind the decision may have involved differences over the management of Algeria’s youth teams.

El Khabar claims that federation officials were dissatisfied with the level of autonomy granted to Rezak Nedder, the coach of the national Under-20 side.

The report suggests that the handling of youth-team affairs became a source of internal disagreement, although no official details have emerged regarding the exact issues involved.

The recent quarter-final exit of Algeria’s Under-17 team at the Africa Cup of Nations has also been mentioned as a possible contributing factor, although no direct link has been confirmed.

The timing of the reported decision is notable. Algeria is preparing for its return to the World Cup stage, a moment that has naturally dominated discussions across the country.

However, the role of National Technical Director remains crucial to the long-term development of the game, particularly in areas such as player development, coaching structures and youth football.

Should Moucer’s departure be confirmed, attention will soon turn to who the FAF selects as his successor and what direction Algeria’s technical programme will take once the World Cup campaign concludes.