Otto Pfister’s Future at USM Alger Remains Uncertain Despite Champions League Progress
German coach Otto Pfister may be nearing the end of his tenure at USM Alger, despite leading the club into the group stage of the CAF Champions League. Questions surrounding his future continue to linger as the team approaches the final stretch of the domestic season.
Pfister, 77, took charge of the Algerian side in December 2014 under a contract running until the end of 2015. However, his position is expected to be reassessed once the current Ligue 1 campaign concludes, with a decision set to be made following the final round of fixtures on May 29.
“Everything will be clarified regarding Pfister’s future with the team once the championship is over,” said USM Alger’s general manager, Rachid Redjradj, in comments reported by the Algerian Press Service (APS).
Pfister’s appointment has not been universally embraced by the club’s supporters or internal staff. Despite his notable achievement in guiding USM Alger into the group stage of Africa’s premier club competition, his domestic record has been less convincing. The club’s inconsistent performances in the national league have fuelled speculation about his possible departure at the season’s end.
The management has remained tight-lipped on the matter, with Redjradj declining to comment on any internal evaluations. He merely reaffirmed that no decision would be made before the end of the domestic campaign.
Pfister, a veteran manager with decades of experience across Africa and the Middle East, has previously coached national teams including Ghana, Cameroon, and Togo. His arrival at USM Alger was seen as a statement of ambition, particularly in continental competition. However, expectations in the domestic league appear to be equally important for the club’s leadership.
With USM Alger navigating both domestic and continental commitments, the coming weeks could prove decisive for Pfister’s future. A strong finish in the Algerian championship might tip the balance in his favour, but anything less could bring an abrupt end to his tenure in Algiers.
