With Algeria’s March training camp fast approaching, national team coach Vladimir Petković faces a defensive conundrum ahead of crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Botswana and Mozambique.
Injuries and limited playing time for key defenders have raised concerns about the squad’s stability at the back, prompting the coach to explore new options.
Amine Tougaï’s injury and Aïssa Mandi’s lack of regular minutes have left questions over how Petković will structure his defense.
Will he stick with a four-man backline, pairing Mandi with Ramy Bensebaïni, or take the tactical risk of a three-defender setup despite the current uncertainty? Reports suggest Olympique de Chlef’s Achraf Abada is being considered for a call-up, but another name has surfaced as a potential solution—Soheïb Naïr of French club Guingamp.
Naïr’s progress catches Petković’s eye
At just 22 years old, Naïr has enjoyed a breakthrough season in Ligue 2, establishing himself as a regular starter for Guingamp, currently in contention for promotion.
His strong performances have not gone unnoticed, with several Ligue 1 clubs reportedly monitoring his progress.
Algeria’s coaching staff is also keeping a close watch, with Petković said to have requested a detailed report on the young defender’s attributes and development.
According to sources within the national team setup, Naïr’s physical presence and composure on the ball have impressed Petković, making him a genuine contender for selection.
While it remains uncertain whether he will receive an immediate call-up for the March qualifiers, his long-term prospects with the Desert Foxes appear promising.
A second chance with Algeria
This is not the first time Naïr has been on Algeria’s radar.
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) previously approached him while he was at Toulouse with the intention of integrating him into the U20 setup.
However, an untimely injury prevented him from joining at the time.
Now, with his career gaining momentum in France, he could have a second opportunity to represent his country.
The final decision rests with Petković, who must determine whether to bring Naïr into the squad immediately or wait until the end of the season to further evaluate his potential.
With Algeria needing defensive reinforcements, the Guingamp defender may soon get his chance to prove himself on the international stage.
