Vahid Halilhodzic Confirms Departure as Algeria Coach After Historic World Cup Run
Vahid Halilhodzic has officially stepped down as head coach of Algeria, bringing to an end a memorable three-year spell in charge of the Fennecs. The announcement was made on Sunday via a statement on the Algerian Football Federation’s (FAF) official website.
“I am leaving proud of my record after having fully respected my contract with the FAF,” the Franco-Bosnian coach said, reflecting on a tenure that saw Algeria reach the last 16 of a World Cup for the first time in their history.
Halilhodzic paid tribute to FAF president Mohamed Raouraoua for his support, stating: “I do not forget to warmly thank the president of the FAF Mohamed Raouraoua with whom I worked for three years in close collaboration to achieve the objectives set.”
Despite his on-field success, the 61-year-old did not leave without criticism, taking aim at sections of the Algerian press. “The only false note, which I would like to point out, is the indelicate behavior of a certain press, fortunately not all of them, which has not stopped stigmatizing, not only my work, but has attacked me personally and my family, something I will never forget and will never forgive,” he added.
Halilhodzic, a former PSG and Ivory Coast coach, is now widely expected to take over at Turkish club Trabzonspor. “After living three years in Algeria, my family obligations and the attraction of new sporting challenges weighed heavily in my choice,” he explained.
Christian Gourcuff is expected to be named as his successor in the coming days, according to sources close to the Algerian federation.
