Paulo Bento and Felix Sanchez emerge as Algeria options as coaching decision is delayed

The Algeria Football Federation (FAF) is yet to decide on its next manager, despite Paulo Bento and Felix Sanchez reportedly giving their approval to take charge of the national team.

The federation had initially hoped to complete the succession to Vladimir Petkovic quickly. However, according to Dzair Tube, both Bento and Sanchez have indicated that they would be willing to lead the Fennecs, while FAF president Walid Sadi and his team continue to consider their options.

Bento is said to be particularly enthusiastic about the Algeria project. The Portuguese coach can point to a substantial international record, having managed Portugal from 2010 to 2014.

During that period, he guided a team featuring Cristiano Ronaldo to the semi-finals of Euro 2012. Bento later took charge of South Korea, leading them to the last 16 at the 2022 World Cup, before becoming manager of the United Arab Emirates.

His time with the United Arab Emirates ended unsuccessfully, with Bento dismissed in March 2025.

Bento’s main honours came during his period with Sporting Portugal, where he won two Portuguese Cups and two national Super Cups. At international level, he also claimed the East Asian Cup with South Korea in 2019.

Sanchez remains part of the process despite doubts that had emerged in recent weeks, including accusations that he was trying to “faire doublette” with South Korea.

The Spaniard is still valued for his work in player development, his time at the Aspire Academy and his experience managing Qatar and Ecuador.

His background also fits Algeria’s reported intention to gradually refresh the squad and make better use of its emerging generation of players.

The FAF is continuing to examine several other candidates and is understood to want more time before reaching a final decision. An announcement had initially been expected around 20 August, but it is now reportedly scheduled to take place between 25 and 30 August.

Bento and Sanchez therefore have provisional agreements to pursue the position, but neither has yet been appointed as Algeria manager.

The prolonged process has already seen several changes of direction, meaning the final outcome remains uncertain. The federation’s decision will determine who succeeds Petkovic and takes responsibility for the next phase of the Fennecs’ development.

For now, both Bento and Sanchez remain possible choices, with the FAF yet to make its final selection.