The Algeria Football Federation has reportedly shifted its attention away from Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle in its search for a new national team manager, with former Watford assistant Karim Belhocine now emerging as the leading candidate to succeed Vladimir Petkovic.
The development comes days after reports linked Chelle with the Algeria job following the Desert Foxes’ elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, there has been no official confirmation that the Nigerian coach expressed interest in taking over the role.
Although Petkovic remains Algeria’s head coach, his future has come under scrutiny after the team’s Round of 16 exit to Switzerland. The Algerian Football Federation is expected to review his position at an upcoming executive meeting while exploring possible replacements.
According to reports, 48-year-old Belhocine has become the frontrunner after impressing federation officials with his coaching credentials and extensive knowledge of Algerian football.
The French-Algerian tactician recently took charge of Algerian top-flight club JS Kabylie after previous coaching spells with Belgian clubs Anderlecht, Charleroi and KV Kortrijk. He also served as an assistant coach at English club Watford.
Algerian media reports indicate that the federation views Belhocine’s UEFA Pro Licence, tactical expertise and experience in both European and Algerian football as key strengths.
Chelle had earlier been linked with the vacancy after reports suggested Algerian officials had made initial contact with the Franco-Malian coach following dissatisfaction with Petkovic’s tactical approach.
The Super Eagles coach has enhanced his reputation in African football after guiding Mali to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before leading Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2025 AFCON. He also previously managed Algerian club MC Oran.
Despite the speculation, Chelle remains under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation, which is reportedly finalising a long-term contract extension that would keep him in charge of the Super Eagles until 2030.
The proposed deal is expected to increase his monthly salary and expand his responsibilities to include oversight of Nigeria’s Under-23 Olympic team.
Chelle was appointed Super Eagles head coach in January 2025. Although Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, he has received praise for his performances during his first 18 months in charge.
