Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic explains Baghdad Bounedjah’s World Cup omission

Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic has publicly addressed the absence of veteran striker Baghdad Bounedjah from his squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the decision was based on current team needs rather than the player’s past achievements.

The Fennecs boss unveiled his final selection for the tournament on Sunday, naming 26 players plus one additional member in the extended group. Notably absent was Bounedjah, one of the most prolific forwards in Algeria’s history.

The 34-year-old striker, who has scored 35 goals in 86 appearances for the national team, was omitted despite being the third-highest scorer in the history of the Fennecs, behind only Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani.

His exclusion did not come entirely as a surprise. Bounedjah had already been left out of Algeria’s plans in March and was not included in the preliminary group called up for the training camp in Algiers ahead of the World Cup.

Speaking at a press conference following the squad announcement, Petkovic outlined the reasoning behind the decision and suggested that broader team considerations had influenced his final selection.

“Bounedjah is a very great player, he gave a lot to the national team during his career, but my role is also to evaluate the player now. As I said before, this isn’t against Bounedjah, but it’s for the players who are on the list.”

The coach’s comments indicated that his focus extended beyond individual ability when assembling the squad for the tournament.

Petkovic had previously spoken about the importance of team chemistry and collective commitment when discussing the criteria used to select his players.

“It’s not just about individual qualities; there needs to be compatibility between the players and a balance with the right mindset. I also think talent is important, but the most important thing is attitude and being willing to sacrifice with the desire to work for the team.”

Speculation surrounding Bounedjah’s absence has persisted in recent months, with reports suggesting that perceptions regarding his behaviour during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and subsequent public comments may have influenced the coaching staff’s thinking.

However, Petkovic stopped short of directly addressing those reports, choosing instead to emphasise the values and balance he wants within his squad.

For Bounedjah, the omission is a significant disappointment. At 34, the Al-Shamal SC striker now appears set to miss what could have been his final opportunity to represent Algeria at a FIFA World Cup.

Meanwhile, Algeria will head into the tournament with a squad carefully selected by Petkovic, who has prioritised collective cohesion as the Fennecs prepare for football’s biggest stage.