Djamel Belmadi and Aliou Cissé, two distinguished managers in African football, now find themselves available and without current positions. These former champions, who rose from the same neighborhood in France to redefine football in their respective countries, have each transformed their teams, leaving a lasting impact on African football. Both are now sought-after coaches with potential suitors from clubs and national teams across the globe.
Belmadi led Algeria’s national team during a difficult period, bringing much-needed stability and a renewed sense of purpose starting in 2018.
Appointed as head coach when the team was struggling, he implemented a disciplined, rigorous approach that transformed Algeria’s fortunes.
His efforts culminated in Algeria’s victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), held in Egypt, where Algeria captured the title after a 29-year wait.
Belmadi’s tenure was marked by his strategic acumen and attention to detail, which included fostering a solid defense and an efficient counterattack strategy.
Under his leadership, Algeria achieved a 35-game unbeaten streak, a testament to the effectiveness of his coaching.
Despite his success, Belmadi’s journey with Algeria was not without its critics.
Some questioned his rigorous approach and his emphasis on defensive tactics, but his record speaks for itself.
Over six years, Belmadi’s Algeria amassed 42 wins, 16 draws, and just six losses, reinforcing his reputation as a manager capable of sustaining high performance.
However, after Algeria’s disappointing exit in the AFCON -2023, Belmadi’s tenure came to an end, allowing him to consider other opportunities.
His profile as a tactician who prioritizes discipline and resilience makes him a highly attractive candidate for any team seeking stability and success.
Meanwhile, Aliou Cissé, a former captain of the Senegalese national team, brought his own unique influence to Senegal.
Appointed as head coach in 2015, Cissé’s journey with Senegal culminated in a historic 2021 AFCON victory, Senegal’s first continental title.
Known for his player-focused approach and ability to instill a strong team identity, Cissé guided Senegal to the 2019 AFCON final, where they fell to Belmadi’s Algeria.
Two years later, however, Cissé led his team to triumph, forever solidifying his legacy in Senegalese football.
Cissé’s strengths as a coach include his ability to manage big personalities and his tactical flexibility, which allowed him to bring out the best in his players while maintaining a strong group dynamic.
Over his nearly 10-year tenure, Cissé recorded 63 wins, 21 draws, and 13 losses.
Despite these achievements, Cissé’s recent departure followed a 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso in September during AFCON 2025 qualifiers.
His exit underscores the pressures and expectations associated with managing a national team, even for a coach of his calibre.
With both Belmadi and Cissé now available, their skills are attracting attention from clubs and national teams alike.
Known for their success in high-stakes African tournaments and their experience with managing high-profile squads, these two coaches bring a wealth of experience to any potential employer.
For football clubs and national teams seeking leaders with a winning mindset and a wealth of tactical knowledge, Belmadi and Cissé represent prime candidates capable of transforming teams and instilling success.
As the two champions consider their next steps, many fans are left wondering where they might go next.
Whether they return to manage national teams or take on club roles remains to be seen, but both Belmadi and Cissé are sure to bring unparalleled expertise to their future endeavors, wherever they may be.
