Andy Delort’s tenure at MC Alger has become increasingly tenuous, with his recent form and off-field conduct causing frustration among fans and club management.
The former Algerian international’s back-to-back penalty misses against CR Belouizdad (CRB) and ES Sétif (ESS), coupled with underwhelming performances, have led to growing dissatisfaction within the Algiers club.
The departure of head coach Patrice Beaumelle, a key supporter of Delort, has further exacerbated the situation.
Beaumelle had consistently defended the striker despite calls from fans and analysts for him to be sidelined due to poor form.
The French coach maintained confidence that Delort would eventually regain his sharpness.
However, with only three goals since the season began, Delort has continued to disappoint.
The breaking point came after an incident during a match against ASO Chlef, where Delort was caught on camera laughing at teammate Larbi Tabti’s missed penalty.
The footage quickly went viral, sparking outrage among fans and club officials alike. In response, MC Alger president Abdelhakim Hadj Redjem and Mohamed Khezrouni summoned Delort for clarification.
The striker was warned that his behavior had not only upset supporters but also undermined the team’s morale.
Following the incident, Delort requested permission to return to France for the Christmas holidays, a request that was granted after consultation with newly appointed coach Khaled Benyahia. On Monday, Delort left Algeria, raising questions about his commitment to the team.
His departure comes at a critical time for MC Alger, which faces a packed schedule.
The team is set to play Magra on Thursday in the 15th round of the Ligue 1 Mobilis, followed by a crucial Algerian Cup clash against ES Ben Aknoun next Monday.
On January 4, MC Alger will travel to Nouakchott to face Hilal of Sudan in the African Champions League group stage, a match that could significantly influence the club’s progression in the competition.
Speculation is mounting over whether Delort’s departure to France signals a permanent exit from MC Alger.
Many believe the striker’s rushed signing and lack of preparation have contributed to his struggles, compounded by a long period of inactivity before joining the club.
His form had been in decline since leaving Qatar, and without Beaumelle to shield him, Delort appears increasingly out of favor.
For now, MC Alger faces critical decisions about Delort’s future as the club navigates a challenging period in its domestic and continental campaigns. Whether this marks the end of Delort’s time in Algiers remains to be seen.
