USM Alger has announced a significant leadership shake-up, with Aboubakr Abed named as the club’s new president following the dismissal of Athmane Sahbane by majority shareholder Serport Group.
Sahbane, who assumed the role in June 2024, was relieved of his duties during a board meeting held on Saturday.
The move comes in response to what officials described as a season of underwhelming performances and unmet expectations.
Serport, which holds controlling interest in the club, has initiated a broader restructuring effort aimed at rejuvenating both the sporting and administrative branches of the organization.
Abed’s appointment marks the beginning of what insiders view as a strategic shift intended to stabilize the club and recapture its competitive edge.
While no public statement was made by Sahbane following his removal, his tenure was marred by growing discontent over USMA’s inconsistent form on the pitch.
In a further indication of sweeping changes at the club, former club legend Saïd Allik is expected to be formally introduced as sporting director by Monday.
Allik, who played a pivotal role during USM Alger’s golden era, is being brought in as part of a comprehensive revival strategy.
“Allik’s return is a signal that we are serious about reestablishing the club’s winning culture,” said a source familiar with the club’s internal affairs.
Administrative restructuring is also underway.
The chief executive officer position, recently vacated due to the retirement of Karim-Dine Herkat, has now been filled by Abdelkrim Rezal.
Rezal’s appointment is being seen as a continuation of Serport’s broader efforts to install leadership figures who align with their long-term vision for the club.
These developments form part of what Serport describes as a “structural reorganization” designed to return USM Alger to its former stature.
Once one of Algeria’s most dominant sides, the club has struggled in recent seasons, and the changes are widely interpreted as a clear signal that Serport is no longer willing to accept mediocrity.
The transition at the top is expected to trigger further adjustments throughout the club’s hierarchy, as the new leadership team seeks to recalibrate and restore USMA’s status on both national and continental stages.
With Abed now at the helm, all eyes will be on how quickly the new regime can translate boardroom changes into results on the field.
