ES Sétif Coach Kheireddine Madoui Announces Shock Resignation Despite Champions League Progress
Despite guiding ES Sétif to the group stage of the CAF Champions League after a tense penalty shootout victory over Raja Casablanca, head coach Kheireddine Madoui has stunned Algerian football by announcing his resignation.
Speaking to APS, the 38-year-old tactician declared, “I am announcing my resignation today to give the management the time needed to find a new coach.” He added that he would remain at the helm until the end of the season, with his departure only becoming effective once the club has secured a replacement, so as “not to put the club in difficulty.”
The announcement comes just days after the reigning African champions squeezed through to the next round of the competition, edging Raja 4-1 on penalties after a dramatic 2-2 aggregate draw. While the result ensured Sétif’s continental campaign continues, it has done little to mask the turbulence behind the scenes.
Madoui’s resignation raises eyebrows given that he recently renewed his contract with the club for three more years. Observers are now left questioning whether this is a sincere decision or a tactical move to apply pressure on the club’s hierarchy—especially amid reports of growing tension with sections of the fanbase and frustrations over squad management.
This is not the first time Madoui has publicly flirted with the idea of departure. He previously threatened to resign prior to the FIFA Club World Cup, only to walk back on his decision. However, this latest statement was more direct and definitive.
For now, Madoui will continue in his role until the season’s conclusion. But with his future hanging in the balance, and with ES Sétif still competing on multiple fronts, the coming weeks may prove decisive not just for the club’s campaign—but for the fate of one of its most successful managers.