Algeria sound out Eric Chelle as pressure mounts on Petkovic after World Cup exit

Algeria have reportedly begun exploring potential alternatives to head coach Vladimir Petkovic following the national team’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Desert Foxes were knocked out in the Round of 32 after a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland, bringing an end to a campaign that has left many supporters and football officials questioning the team’s direction.

Petkovic only signed a two-year contract extension last month, but his future is already under scrutiny after Algeria failed to build on their progress at the tournament.

The North Africans reached the knockout stage for only the second time in their history, benefiting from the expanded 48-team format that allowed the best third-placed teams to advance.

Finishing third in their group meant Algeria avoided a meeting with Spain and instead faced Switzerland, a draw many believed offered a realistic opportunity to reach the last 16. However, Petkovic’s side produced a lacklustre display and were comfortably beaten.

The Swiss-born coach has also faced criticism for several tactical decisions, particularly his choice to begin the match without a recognised centre-forward.

The move drew surprise from both fans and observers, with Switzerland midfielder Johan Manzambi admitting after the game that the decision caught his side off guard.

According to reports, the Algerian Football Federation has already made contact with Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle as it considers its options despite Petkovic’s recent contract extension.

Chelle has earned widespread praise since taking charge of the Super Eagles in 2025. Although Nigeria suffered a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo at the World Cup, the 48-year-old responded by guiding the team to a third-place finish at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The former Mali coach is regarded as one of Africa’s rising managerial talents, having also led Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 AFCON. His previous spell with Algerian club MC Oran has also given him valuable experience of the country’s football landscape.

Chelle’s reputation for building disciplined, attack-minded teams and managing high-profile players has reportedly made him an attractive option should Algeria decide to make a change in the coming weeks.

For now, Petkovic remains in charge, but speculation over his future is expected to intensify as Algeria assess the fallout from another World Cup disappointment.