Djamel Belmadi has returned to management after an 18-month absence, officially taking charge of Al-Duhail SC on Tuesday, July 1.
The former Algeria national team boss oversaw his first training session with the Qatari side, signalling the start of a new phase in his coaching career.
Belmadi’s reappointment brings him back to familiar territory.
Between 2015 and 2018, he enjoyed a successful spell with Al-Duhail—then known as Lekhwiya—during which he lifted multiple domestic titles.
His return is viewed as a strategic move by the club’s hierarchy, aiming to re-establish Al-Duhail among the dominant forces in Qatari and Asian football after a disappointing 2024–2025 campaign.
The club’s faith in Belmadi stems from both his tactical acumen and his deep understanding of the local football landscape.
His ability to instil discipline, foster a winning mentality, and adapt to regional challenges has been widely praised.
The 48-year-old coach left a lasting legacy with the Algerian national team, notably guiding them to the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations title, before stepping down in early 2024 following a group-stage exit at the continental tournament.
Belmadi has wasted no time in assembling a trusted backroom staff for this new venture.
Among his key appointments is Farès Bouzid, a highly regarded Franco-Algerian coach and UEFA Pro Licence holder.
Bouzid previously served as director of Troyes’ academy in France and led Al Jazira’s U21 squad in the UAE.
At Al-Duhail, he will act as Belmadi’s principal assistant.
The Qatari club’s leadership is confident that Belmadi can spearhead a revival.
His previous tenure brought not just silverware but a distinct identity to the team, and the club now hopes he can replicate that success.
◀️ بلماضــــي ▶️ pic.twitter.com/RvuFu85zk3
— Al Duhail SC | نادي الدحيل (@DuhailSC) July 1, 2025
There is optimism that his return will usher in a new period of competitiveness and consistency, both domestically and on the continental stage.
For Belmadi himself, the move represents a return to the touchline after a prolonged break from football’s spotlight.
Following a period of silence and self-reflection after his departure from Algeria, the coach now appears reenergised and focused on his next challenge.
With expectations high and ambitions clear, Djamel Belmadi steps into his second spell at Al-Duhail with renewed purpose and a familiar drive to win.
