Algeria star Ibrahim Maza reportedly involved in jersey number dispute at World Cup

Ibrahim Maza’s camp reportedly clashed with Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic over the midfielder’s shirt number during the 2026 World Cup, according to investigative journalist Romain Molina.

The reported disagreement has emerged as part of wider claims about problems behind the scenes during Algeria’s disappointing tournament campaign, which ended with a 2-0 defeat by Switzerland in the Round of 16.

Molina’s investigation into the Fennecs’ World Cup performance highlighted several issues within the Algerian national team setup, including what he described as a lack of organisation at the Algerian Football Federation (FAF).

Among the incidents mentioned was a disagreement involving Maza, his representatives and the coaching staff over the number 10 jersey. The shirt, traditionally associated with creative attacking players, became a source of tension between the two camps.

According to the report, the father of the 20-year-old midfielder attempted to intervene in order to secure the number 10 shirt for his son, who had become an increasingly important figure in Algeria’s attacking play.

However, the request was unsuccessful. The number 10 remained with Farès Chaïbi, who has worn the shirt since March, while Maza continued with the number 22 jersey.

The failed attempt reportedly created frustration within Maza’s entourage, with Molina describing the issue as “the central point” of the disagreement between the player’s camp and Petkovic’s staff.

The tension was reportedly increased by Maza’s dissatisfaction with being used as a false nine during Algeria’s final match of the tournament. The midfielder is said to have sought an explanation from the national team coach but did not receive the response he expected.

According to Molina, the situation became serious enough that Maza reportedly considered stepping away from international football while Petkovic remained in charge.

Despite the reported disagreements, Maza was said to have been deeply affected by Algeria’s elimination. His teammates reportedly visited him at the Fennecs’ hotel after the match to offer support following the disappointing exit.

Maza, known affectionately as “Ibo” in Algeria, remains one of the country’s most promising young talents. However, the reported dispute has added further attention to the internal challenges surrounding the national team following their early World Cup departure.