Youcef Belaili keeps Algeria options open as search begins for Vladimir Petkovic successor

Youcef Belaili has indicated that he remains available for Algeria as the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) searches for a new manager to replace Vladimir Petkovic.

The 34-year-old winger responded to a comment on TikTok with the message: “InchaAllah, jamais on dit non, 1, 2, 3 viva l’Algerie.”

Belaili has not played for the national team since October 2025, when Algeria beat Somalia 3-0 in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. His latest comments appear to rule out suggestions that he could be considering retirement from international football.

The FAF began looking for Petkovic’s replacement after the coach’s departure was officially announced on 3 August. Belaili’s response is being viewed as a clear indication that he would be willing to work with the next Algeria coaching staff if selected.

The player, who helped Algeria win the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, has not made a formal statement about his international future. However, his reply on social media represents his strongest public indication that he does not intend to close the door on the Fennecs.

Belaili’s international position comes amid uncertainty over his club career. In recent days, he had been at the centre of a dispute involving MC Alger and Esperance de Tunis.

MC Alger had announced a preliminary agreement with the player after Esperance de Tunis publicly confirmed that it was unhappy with Belaili’s decision to abandon talks over a contract extension. The player, who was born in Oran, subsequently reversed course and resumed negotiations with Taraji, leaving MC Alger without the expected signing.

That change of direction caused disquiet within the leadership of the Algiers-based club. MC Alger had appeared to be preparing for Belaili’s arrival, but the winger’s decision to return to talks with Esperance de Tunis unsettled the situation.

The episode has added to the uncertainty surrounding the experienced forward, who is now also waiting to see who will take charge of Algeria. His message suggests that, despite his absence from the squad since the victory over Somalia, he remains prepared to answer a call from the national team.

The FAF’s search for Petkovic’s successor is continuing, while Belaili’s comments have provided a direct indication of his position. For now, the former Africa Cup of Nations winner has made it clear that he is not saying no to Algeria.