Following Algeria’s triumph at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Djamel Belmadi has assumed full responsibility for all technical aspects of the national team after the departure of General Manager Hakim Medane. This consolidation of responsibilities places Belmadi at the center of the team’s strategic and tactical decisions, giving him greater control over squad selection, training methods, and match preparation.
A few months after this reorganization, Belmadi’s position was officially confirmed by Kheireddine Zetchi, president of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF). Zetchi explained that the role of general manager had been eliminated because the national coach alone should oversee the technical dimension of the team. Meanwhile, Mr. Belyacine was appointed as coordinator to handle organizational duties, ensuring that the administrative and logistical side of the national team remains well-managed.
Zetchi also addressed rumors surrounding Medane’s departure, clarifying that there were no conflicts between him and the former general manager. According to the president, Medane chose to step down voluntarily after the AFCON victory due to family commitments, which made it difficult for him to fully dedicate himself to the role. This explanation aims to put to rest speculation of internal disagreements within the FAF.
Belmadi’s expanded role now encompasses multiple responsibilities. Beyond his usual duties as head coach, he is expected to oversee the overall technical vision of the national team, including player development, tactical planning, and preparation for major competitions such as the Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup qualifiers. This centralization of authority reflects the FAF’s confidence in Belmadi’s abilities and track record, particularly following Algeria’s historic AFCON success.
Despite the added responsibilities, the ultimate goal remains clear: to make the Algerian national team stronger, more competitive, and capable of challenging the continent’s top sides as well as international opponents. Belmadi’s leadership will be crucial in maintaining the team’s momentum, developing young talent, and ensuring consistency in performance across all competitions.
The appointment underscores a strategic shift within the Algerian Football Federation, emphasizing streamlined decision-making and technical coherence under a single experienced leader. With Belmadi fully in charge of the team’s technical direction, Algeria aims to build on its recent achievements and continue asserting itself as one of Africa’s elite national sides.
