MC Oran: Dziri Billel’s coaching spell ends before first training session

MC Oran cancelled the appointment of Dziri Billel as head coach just hours after confirming him in the role, following strong opposition from supporters.

The former USM Alger captain had signed his contract and was due to begin work at training at 16:00, alongside assistant Haddou Moulay.

The pair were also scheduled to lead the evening session and prepare the team for the upcoming match against MC Alger.

The club had formally announced the appointment on social media on Tuesday evening.

However, intense fan pressure — particularly online — prompted the leadership led by Hichem Guennad to reverse the decision before Dziri could take charge on the pitch.

Officials feared the appointment would spark unrest at the Hadefi-Miloud stadium ahead of the highly anticipated clash with the reigning two-time Algerian champions.

In response, the management asked the former international not to begin the duties for which he had been recruited, effectively ending his tenure before it started.

The reversal leaves MC Oran without a permanent coach.

Responsibility for the team now falls to Tahar Cherif El-Ouazzani, who will take his place on the bench for the upcoming fixture.

Cherif El-Ouazzani has already overseen preparations following the departure of Carlos Garrido and has handled all technical planning for the match.

The unusual episode means Dziri’s time as MC Oran coach lasted only a few hours, despite contracts having been signed and duties scheduled.

The club opted to prioritise calm around the team rather than risk escalating tensions with supporters before a major domestic encounter.