Jose Peseiro open to Algeria role after Vladimir Petkovic departure

Jose Peseiro has not ruled out taking charge of Algeria, although there has been no contact between the two parties since the Football Association of Algeria (FAF) ended Vladimir Petkovic’s tenure.

The Portuguese coach is regarded as one of the possible candidates to succeed Petkovic, whose time with the Fennecs officially came to an end on Monday evening. The FAF confirmed its separation from the 62-year-old after two and a half years in charge, following a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.

Algeria are now working to appoint a new manager before the next international period begins in September, and Peseiro is considered a strong fit for the vacancy. He comes from the Iberian coaching tradition, is viewed as a fashionable option and would also be financially affordable for the federation.

Other potential names appear less realistic. Rafael Benitez is regarded as a manager whose best years may have passed, while Roberto Martinez would be difficult to appoint because of his salary demands.

Martinez earned €4m while managing Portugal, more than twice the €1.8m annual figure reportedly received by Petkovic. That financial gap makes the former Portugal manager a far less attainable option for Algeria.

Peseiro, however, would reportedly be receptive to a return to the international game with the North African side. He came close to taking charge of Algeria in 2024, before that appointment fell through and the FAF opted for Petkovic instead.

According to journalist Naim Beneddra, Peseiro has “a lot of affection for Algeria”. That previous interest, combined with his financial availability, means he could emerge as a practical solution for the federation as it begins its search.

There has still been no approach or rapprochement between Peseiro and Algeria, the same source reported. The coach also feels “very well” in his current position with Al-Ula, whom he joined at the beginning of January.

Peseiro is the former manager of the Nigeria national team and is currently working in the Saudi second division. His willingness to consider the Algeria job therefore remains uncertain, despite the positive feelings he is understood to have towards the country.

For now, the FAF’s search remains at an early stage. Petkovic’s departure has created the vacancy, but there is no agreement with Peseiro and no indication that formal negotiations have begun. The federation must nevertheless move quickly, with the September international window approaching and the Algerian national team requiring a new direction after the end of Petkovic’s spell.