Vladimir Petkovic is weighing a series of complex decisions as he works towards finalising Algeria national football team squad for the 2026 World Cup, with injuries, fitness concerns and fluctuating form among several players complicating the process.
The Swiss coach has yet to settle on key positions, with competition for places intensified by uncertainty surrounding player readiness. Since the last Africa Cup of Nations, the squad—often referred to as the “Greens”—has been affected by recurring injuries and health issues, creating additional challenges for the former Lazio manager as he attempts to define his priorities.
Group stage challenge awaits
Algeria have been drawn in Group 10 alongside Argentina national football team, as well as Jordan national football team and Austria national football team. The tournament, to be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico, will mark Algeria’s fifth appearance at the global finals, following their absence from the 2018 and 2022 editions.
Selection to be based on performance, not reputation
A source indicated that Petkovic intends to base his final squad decisions strictly on technical considerations, rather than past achievements or emotional factors. The coach is expected to make decisive calls once the domestic season concludes, before submitting an extended squad list to FIFA by 13 May.
Among the players under close evaluation is Nabil Bentaleb, who remains a priority despite previous disciplinary issues that led to his exclusion from recent selections. The midfielder’s situation has been further complicated by minor surgery, although he is still viewed as a strong candidate for inclusion.
His potential return is also influenced by the fitness struggles of Ismael Bennacer, who has endured a lengthy injury absence and has yet to reclaim a regular starting role since returning to action.
Midfield and attacking concerns emerge
The midfield picture has also shifted following a decline in form from Hamed Abdelli since his move to Olympique Marseille. Once considered one of the standout performers at the Africa Cup of Nations, Abdelli is now reportedly outside Petkovic’s immediate plans, potentially opening the door for Bentaleb’s return.
In attack, Baghdad Bounedjah remains under observation despite previous disciplinary concerns. The striker, currently playing for Al-Shamal, could still secure a place in the squad if he demonstrates a strong finish to the season and a return to form.
Fitness concerns over key players
Elsewhere, Petkovic is closely monitoring the condition of Joan Hajjam and Rayan Cherki, both of whom have recently returned from extended injury layoffs. Their availability remains uncertain, with the coaching staff keen to assess whether they can regain full match fitness in time for the tournament.
The manager is said to be working closely with the national team’s medical staff to gather detailed updates on each player’s condition. With only a limited number of matches remaining before the end of the season, Petkovic is expected to delay final decisions until he is satisfied with both the physical and technical readiness of his squad.
Final decisions expected soon
As preparations intensify, Algeria’s World Cup ambitions will depend heavily on the outcome of these selection decisions. Petkovic’s approach suggests a focus on current performance levels and fitness, signalling a willingness to make difficult choices in pursuit of competitiveness on the global stage.
With the deadline for squad submission approaching, the coming weeks are likely to prove निर्णutive in shaping Algeria’s prospects at the tournament.
