Algeria search moves on after Xavi approach fails to progress

Algeria’s interest in Xavi appears to have cooled after the former Barcelona manager’s financial demands were judged too high by the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), according to La Gazette du Fennec.

The FAF is looking for a new head coach after Vladimir Petkovic’s departure was agreed. The federation is understood to be completing the final details of the termination of Petkovic’s contract, with the coach set to receive several months’ salary as part of the settlement.

At the same time, the governing body is working to appoint his successor before the next international break and the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in September.

The emerging preference appears to be for a coach with experience of the Iberian football school. Jose Peseiro, who was previously considered by Algeria in 2024, has already been linked with the vacancy.

Xavi was also contacted by Algerian officials, although the approach was reportedly made to gather information about his availability and conditions rather than to finalise an appointment.

The former Spain international has been without a club since leaving Barcelona two years ago. He was approached by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) at the beginning of the year about replacing Walid Regragui, but declined the offer.

Xavi preferred to take charge after the 2026 World Cup, rather than begin a new international project immediately.

Morocco subsequently opted for a domestic appointment, placing its confidence in Mohamed Ouahbi. He has since been retained until 2030 after what were described as convincing performances at the World Cup.

According to La Gazette du Fennec, Xavi’s financial requirements have proved excessive for the FAF. The federation has therefore reportedly decided to close the file and move on from the former Barcelona manager.

The decision leaves Algeria continuing its search for a successor to Petkovic, with the timetable becoming increasingly important ahead of the September fixtures and the opening of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The national technical committee is expected to meet this week to draw up a shortlist of three candidates. Those names will then be submitted to the federation, which is expected to make a decision quickly.

The process follows a period of uncertainty over the coaching position, with Algeria now appearing to have ruled out one of the most prominent names approached during its search. Jose Peseiro remains a name already associated with the role, while the final shortlist is due to determine which candidates remain under consideration.