Algeria's coach search sidelines Renard as Ivory Coast beckons

The departure of Vladimir Petkovic as head of the Algerian national team forces the Fédération algérienne de football (FAF) to accelerate its search for a new coach, while the French (Français) 57‑year‑old Hervé Renard is now set to return to the Ivory Coast, ending any realistic chance of him taking the Fennecs job.

Petkovic's exit leaves the FAF with a vacant position and a shortlist of candidates already circulating, but Renard is not among the concrete options being considered for the Fennecs.

Renard, a French coach, is highly regarded by many Algerian supporters for his two Africa Cup of Nations titles – with Zambia in 2012 and with the Ivory Coast in 2015 – and for his previous spells in Morocco, Saudi Arabia and most recently Tunisia.

Algerian FA dismisses Vladimir Petkovic after World Cup flop

Recent reports indicate that Renard is on the verge of re‑joining the Ivory Coast national team, succeeding Emerse Faé after the World Cup 2026, with an official announcement expected in the coming days.

This development closes the door on any immediate appointment of Renard to the Algerian side, confirming that the FAF must explore other possibilities.

Algeria faces coaching change as Vladimir Petkovic set to leave

According to several sources, Algerian officials are now leaning toward a coach of Spanish or Portuguese profile, aiming to start a new cycle after the retirement of several senior players and anticipated changes in the squad.

For a portion of the fan base, Renard will remain a missed opportunity, while the Algeria national team continues its search for the manager who will open a new chapter in its Football history.