Gustavo Poyet confirms talks over Algeria manager’s job

Gustavo Poyet has confirmed he was in contention to succeed Vladimir Petkovic as Algeria manager, revealing that discussions with the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) had progressed significantly.

The Uruguay coach, who was among the candidates considered during the summer, told Afrik-Foot that he was enthusiastic about the possibility of taking charge of the national team. He had even begun to imagine himself in the role before Algeria appointed former Marseille player Brahim Hemdani.

Algeria’s search followed a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign, which ended in the last 16 with a 2-0 defeat by Switzerland. The federation had spent a lengthy period considering its options after Petkovic was forced to leave his position, reportedly in return for a payment of 4 million euros, according to several sources.

Poyet, 58, was available after ending his spell in charge of Saudi club Al-Khaleej at the end of May 2026. His knowledge of French, developed during his time as a player at Grenoble and later as a coach at Bordeaux, was another factor in his suitability for the role.

The former Greece manager confirmed that the contact from Algeria was more than an initial approach, with negotiations reaching an advanced stage. He also made clear that the prospect of leading the Fennecs had appealed to him.

Despite missing out on the position, Poyet said he felt no bitterness over the decision. He described being approached for such a prestigious role as an honour, even though the job ultimately went to Hemdani.

Poyet managed Greece from February 2022 until March 2024. He is now waiting for his next opportunity, which could come either with a club or another national team.