Two key players have withdrawn from the Algerian national team squad just days before the team’s scheduled friendly encounter against Rwanda, the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) confirmed on Tuesday.
Midfielder Himad Abdelli and defender Kevin Guitoun have both exited the national team training camp after being deemed unfit to continue preparations.
The decision to release the duo was made by head coach Vladimir Petkovic, following the results of routine physical evaluations conducted on the squad.
In an official statement released by the federation, it was explained that Abdelli and Guitoun showed signs of significant physical strain. Medical assessments reportedly revealed fatigue levels that placed both players at risk of further injury if they remained in the lineup.
Coach Petkovic, in coordination with the team’s medical staff, opted to prioritise the players’ recovery, choosing to sideline them from the upcoming fixture in order to prevent long-term complications.
“The technical and medical staff, following detailed physical tests, decided to excuse both players from the current training programme to allow them appropriate time for rest and recovery,” the FAF statement read.
Although neither player’s condition appears to involve a specific injury, the decision underscores the national team’s broader concern with player welfare amid a congested international calendar.
With several competitions on the horizon, including World Cup qualifiers and continental duties, the coaching team appears to be taking a cautious approach when it comes to physical management.
This development comes at a time when Coach Petkovic is still in the early stages of shaping his squad since taking the reins of the Algerian team. Known for his strategic discipline, Petkovic has made it clear that his vision involves building a resilient and fully fit team capable of competing at the highest level.
The absence of Abdelli and Guitoun, though not critical for a friendly, presents a challenge in maintaining the cohesion and fitness levels he hopes to instil.
Himad Abdelli, who plays his club football in France, has been gradually earning his place in the national setup with recent consistent performances. Kevin Guitoun, also based in Europe, has attracted attention for his versatility and defensive reliability. Both players were expected to feature prominently in the Rwanda fixture, which serves as a preparatory match for upcoming official commitments.
The FAF has not indicated whether the two withdrawals will prompt any late call-ups to fill the gaps left in the squad. Training continues as scheduled at the national team camp, with the remaining players focusing on tactical drills and match readiness. Petkovic and his staff are believed to be placing increased emphasis on rotation and player conditioning as part of their ongoing planning process.
The friendly against Rwanda is being viewed as a critical opportunity for squad assessment and tactical experimentation. While the absence of Abdelli and Guitoun may alter the coach’s initial plans, it also opens the door for other players to make their case for regular inclusion.
No timeline was provided for the return of either player to full international duty. The FAF indicated that updates will be made available based on medical evaluations and their respective recovery progress.
As the team prepares to face Rwanda, attention now shifts to how Petkovic will adapt his strategy in the absence of two of his promising talents.
