Atal returns to training, boosts Petkovic’s plans for November

Algeria’s national team coach, Vladimir Petkovic, received positive news from Qatar as Al-Sadd right-back Youssef Atal made his return to training, easing concerns ahead of crucial matches in November.

Atal was absent from the Algerian national team’s recent double-header against Togo in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers due to an injury.

However, the defender, who graduated from the Parado Athletic School, has rejoined his Qatari club’s training sessions after a three-week absence.

His injury occurred during Al-Sadd’s AFC Champions League match against Esteghlal Tehran on 30 September.

Al-Sadd’s management shared a photo of Atal’s return to training on the social media platform “X,” captioned with the words, “Step by step,” signaling his gradual return to full fitness.

Atal’s recovery has arrived at a crucial time, giving him a good chance to be included in the national squad for the upcoming matches in November against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia.

His club will play three matches before the international break, which could help Atal regain his form and match fitness.

Al-Sadd’s upcoming fixtures include a match against Al-Wakrah on Sunday, followed by a clash with Al-Rayyan on Thursday, 31 October.

The team will also face Al-Wasl from the United Arab Emirates on 4 November in the AFC Champions League.

As Atal works on regaining his fitness, he aims to strengthen his case for a spot in the national team, especially as his position is under pressure from Werder Bremen’s German-Algerian defender, Mitchell Weiser.

The competition for the right-back slot has intensified, making Atal’s return to form even more significant for Algeria’s campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The upcoming games will serve as an opportunity for Atal to prove his readiness and secure his place, with the Algerian national team looking ahead to the crucial matches next month.