DZWatch Exclusive: The Algerian national team, Les Fennecs, have commenced a unique training camp in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking their longest preparatory period since the friendly tournament hosted in Algeria in March 2024. This departure from their usual training grounds in Sidi Moussa underscores the Football Federation’s (FAF) commitment to strategic international partnerships.
The camp, featuring friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Zimbabwe, kicked off yesterday, with coach Vladimir Petković overseeing the first training session. Several players, including Haidara, Mandi, Hadjam, Bennacer, Bakrar, and others who played for their clubs on Sunday, were granted a rest day and are expected to join the squad today.
However, the November camp is already marred by significant absences. Following injuries to Gouiri, who underwent surgery, and Bensebaini, who was granted rest in agreement with his club, Fares Chaïbi has now been ruled out.
A formal statement from the FAF confirmed that Chaïbi will miss the Jeddah camp and the friendly matches due to a thigh muscle injury. The injury, sustained during his club match, was deemed too severe for him to participate in the upcoming games. While initial reports from Eintracht Frankfurt’s medical team remained ambiguous, the FAF’s announcement has now clarified the situation.
Meanwhile, the Algerian local team, under coach Madjid Bougherra, has also begun preparations in Egypt, where they are scheduled to play two friendly matches against the Egyptian local team. This camp is crucial for Bougherra as he prepares his squad for the upcoming Arab Cup.
In related news, DZWatch has learned that FAF President Sadi has personally intervened to ensure the best possible care for Youcef Belaïli, the star player who suffered a complete cruciate ligament rupture. The FAF will reportedly arrange for Belaïli to be admitted to a specialized hospital for treatment and rehabilitation.
