Algeria close Xavi chapter as cost concerns reshape coaching search

Algeria have ended their pursuit of Xavi as they move closer to parting company with Vladimir Petkovic, with financial considerations blocking the appointment of the former Barcelona manager. The Algerian Football Federation is now continuing its search with the Spanish coaching tradition still central to its plans.

Reports in Algeria say the federation has reached a preliminary agreement with Petkovic to terminate his contract. The proposed settlement would see the Bosnian coach receive compensation equivalent to three months of his salary, paving the way for an official announcement confirming his departure.

The agreement marks a significant step in Algeria’s efforts to resolve the position of national-team manager. The federation began acting quickly after deciding to address the future of Petkovic and identify a successor capable of taking charge of the side.

Xavi emerged as a major target during that process, but discussions did not lead to an appointment. The financial demands involved in the negotiations proved to be the decisive obstacle, and Algeria have now closed that option rather than continue pursuing an agreement that could not be reached.

That decision does not mean Algeria have abandoned the Spanish approach altogether. The federation’s preference for the Spanish coaching school remains in place, even though the attempt to appoint Xavi has come to an end. The next stage of the search will therefore be shaped by the same broader technical direction, but within financial limits that prevented the Xavi move from progressing.

For now, the immediate priority is to complete the arrangements with Petkovic. According to the Algerian reports, the compensation package has been agreed in principle, with the payment of three months’ wages serving as the basis for terminating the contract. The formal announcement of the coach’s exit is expected once the agreement has been finalised.

The federation’s approach has consequently developed along two linked tracks: finding a new manager and bringing Petkovic’s tenure to a close. While the Xavi file has been closed because of the cost involved, the search for a coach influenced by the Spanish school remains the stated objective.

No further details have been given about the identity of the next candidate or the timetable for appointing Petkovic’s replacement. The information reported so far points only to the preliminary termination agreement with the Bosnian manager, the compensation figure attached to it and the financial barrier that brought the Xavi talks to an end.

Algeria must now progress with the next phase of their managerial search while preparing to announce Petkovic’s departure. The federation’s preferred footballing direction remains unchanged, but its first-choice high-profile option is no longer under consideration.