Jose Peseiro emerges as contender for Algeria job amid Vladimir Petkovic uncertainty

Jose Peseiro has re-emerged as a potential candidate to become Algeria’s next manager, with the Federation Algerienne de Football (FAF) preparing for the possible departure of Vladimir Petkovic.

Petkovic is understood to have reached an agreement with the FAF to terminate his contract, only two months after signing an extension that was due to keep him in the role until 2028.

The federation is expected to assess a number of applications before drawing up a shortlist. Although former France and Saudi Arabia manager Herve Renard has been regularly linked with the position, the FAF is also considering coaches from Spain and Portugal.

Peseiro is among the Portuguese options being examined, according to the Paradou Talents page. His name is familiar to the Algerian federation, which approached him in February 2024 after Djamel Belmadi left the post.

At the time, Peseiro was managing Nigeria. He did not confirm the discussions, saying he wanted to wait until his contract with the Super Eagles ended before deciding between several offers. Algeria ultimately appointed Petkovic instead.

The latest developments also point to a greater role for Algerian coaches within the national-team set-up. Former Algeria captain Anthar Yahia has officially begun his duties and is already in Algiers, according to journalist Samir Djabali.

Yahia is expected to become the first assistant in the next manager’s staff. His appointment reflects the FAF’s intention to place more Algerian technical figures around the incoming head coach.

Petkovic had reportedly agreed to reshape his coaching team as part of efforts to continue with Algeria. However, he eventually came to the view that the necessary conditions for carrying on were no longer in place.

Peseiro’s African experience

The 66-year-old Peseiro has extensive experience and is already familiar with African football. He led Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before leaving the national team.

Since then, his career has continued to take him through several clubs. He was appointed by Zamalek but was dismissed while the Egyptian side sat third in the league and had qualified for the Egyptian Cup final.

In January 2026, Peseiro moved to Al-Ula in the Saudi second tier on a contract running until June 2027.

His trophy record is relatively modest despite a league title in Egypt with Al-Ahly, a Portuguese League Cup triumph with Braga and a UEFA Cup final appearance with Sporting.

Peseiro’s potential appointment would therefore represent a decision based more on his experience, international background and ability to operate in high-profile environments than on the size of his medal collection.

The FAF has not yet made a final decision, but the former Nigeria manager is once again being considered, two years after he was first approached to take charge of Algeria.