Algeria have made initial inquiries about former Qatar manager Felix Sanchez Bas as they begin the search for Vladimir Petkovic’s successor.
The Algerian Football Federation (FAF) is understood to be proceeding cautiously after Petkovic’s departure, with the organisation favouring a coach who understands the specific demands of the national team and is prepared to commit fully to its rebuilding project.
Qatari journalist Abdel Nasser Al Bar reports that the FAF has recently contacted officials in Qatar to obtain the details of Sanchez Bas, the Spanish coach who previously led the Qatar national team.
However, the approach is believed to be no more than an initial fact-finding exercise at this stage. There has been no announcement of an agreement or advanced negotiations between Sanchez Bas and the Algerian federation.
Sanchez Bas has extensive experience of long-term player development. After working at the Aspire Academy, he coached Qatar’s various youth teams before taking charge of the senior side. He guided Qatar to victory at the 2019 AFC Asian Cup and was also in the dugout when the country hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The 49-year-old later managed Ecuador from 2023 to 2024. He has been without a club since leaving Al-Sadd in Qatar in 2025.
FAF prioritises fit over reputation
French-Algerian journalist Nabil Djellit has urged caution over the more prestigious names linked with the vacancy.
“Algeria is not looking for a big name for its national team,” he said.
Djellit believes the federation is instead seeking a manager whose methods match the qualities of the current squad, who is available on a daily basis and who will be genuinely involved in the reconstruction process.
Former Algeria captain Anthar Yahia could also be considered for a role as assistant manager. His knowledge of the national team and his attachment to the Algeria shirt could help establish a connection between the new head coach and the dressing room.
The FAF’s federal bureau has formally approved Petkovic’s departure by mutual consent and instructed the National Technical College to establish the profile required for the next manager.
A meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 6 August, at Sidi Moussa. National technical director Ali Moucer is expected to be among those present, with the group’s conclusions set to guide the federation president before official discussions begin.
Several other names have been mentioned during the early stages of the process. Herve Renard has chosen to return to Cote d’Ivoire, while Eric Chelle is considered difficult to prise away from Nigeria. Rafael Benitez and Jose Peseiro have also emerged as possible candidates, whereas Roberto Martinez would reportedly be financially beyond the federation’s reach.
The interest in Sanchez Bas would therefore appear to fit more closely with the FAF’s emerging approach: placing less emphasis on headline reputation and more on finding a methodical, organised coach who is suited to Algeria’s project.
