Djamel Belmadi emerges as contender to replace Jamal Sellami as Jordan coach

Former Algeria head coach Djamel Belmadi has emerged as a reported candidate to take charge of Jordan following the departure of Moroccan manager Jamal Sellami.

Jordan are searching for a new head coach after the Jordan Football Association (JFA) ended Sellami’s tenure despite there being one year remaining on his contract.

The decision brings to an end a two-year spell in which the Moroccan guided the national side to the 2025 Arab Cup final and oversaw the country’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

However, Jordan’s first appearance at the World Cup proved challenging. The Nashama finished bottom of Group J after losing all three of their matches, including a 2-1 defeat to Algeria in their second group-stage fixture. Those results ultimately brought Sellami’s time in charge to a close.

Attention has now shifted to who will lead the national team into its next chapter, with Belmadi among the names reportedly under consideration.

According to local media reports, the Algerian coach features on the Jordan Football Association’s shortlist as it assesses potential successors.

Belmadi is one of Africa’s most respected coaches after leading Algeria to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations title. His success with the Desert Foxes established his reputation on the international stage and made him one of the most highly regarded managers in the region.

The 49-year-old is currently under contract with Qatari club Al Duhail. Reports suggest that, following a disappointing campaign with the Doha-based side, he could be open to a fresh challenge should the right opportunity arise.

One factor believed to work in Belmadi’s favour is his extensive experience in Gulf football.

He previously managed Al Duhail—then known as Lekhwiya SC—during two separate spells, first between 2010 and 2012 and again from 2015 to 2018.

He also served as head coach of the Qatar national team between March 2014 and January 2015, giving him considerable familiarity with football in the region.

That background could make him an attractive option for Jordan as the federation seeks a coach capable of building on the progress made under Sellami while preparing the team for future international competitions.

For now, no appointment has been confirmed, and Jordan have yet to announce their preferred candidate. Nevertheless, reports linking Belmadi with the role continue to gather momentum as the federation begins its search for a new manager following the end of Sellami’s tenure.