Algerian national team: Vladimir Petkovic benches Houssem Aouar 

Vladimir Petkovic has taken a firm stance on Houssem Aouar’s role in the Algerian national team, relegating the midfielder to the bench for the World Cup qualifier against Guinea.

The Swiss coach, unconvinced by the former AS Roma player’s recent displays, decided that Aouar’s impact had fallen short of expectations.

It is a bold move from Petkovic, who has made it clear that reputation counts for little under his leadership.

His approach appears focused squarely on form and contribution, rather than past status or profile.

Aouar, once considered a key figure for the future of Algeria’s midfield, now finds himself needing to prove he can meet the demands of the current project.

The September international window has been a testing one for many African sides, Algeria included.

Disruptions in preparation, coupled with uneven fitness levels across the squad, limited Petkovic’s ability to fully impose his ideas.

In such a context, decisions like benching Aouar highlight the coach’s intent to adapt swiftly and prioritise players who are physically and mentally ready to deliver.

Reports suggest Petkovic is already weighing further changes for the October fixtures.

With qualification still within reach but criticism mounting over performances, he is expected to refine his squad choices depending on how players respond in the coming weeks.

The message is clear: competition for places remains open, and only those showing consistency and sharpness will be trusted to carry Algeria forward.

For Aouar, the decision represents a crucial moment in his international career.

Having switched allegiance from France to Algeria, the midfielder arrived with high expectations.

Yet inconsistency has left him vulnerable at a time when Petkovic is determined to instil discipline, intensity and balance into the team.

His benching may serve as both a warning and an opportunity—a chance to reset, rebuild confidence and fight his way back into the coach’s plans.

As Algeria move deeper into a decisive phase of World Cup qualifying, Petkovic’s tough stance signals that sentiment will play no part in his selections.

For players like Aouar, the margin for error is narrowing, and the coming months could determine not only their place in the squad but their role in shaping the team’s ambitions on the road to 2026.