JS Kabylie, an Algerian football club competing in Ligue 1, has become the first club in the country to resume training. The team began their first training session on Tuesday, May 26, after a five-and-a-half-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The training session, held in Akbou, Béjaia, focused primarily on physical conditioning. The team's coach, Yamen Zelfani, was not present, but his assistant, Mourad Karouf, led the session.
The club's management confirmed that all players were present and seemed focused during the training session. The team is following strict health protocols, including social distancing and hygiene measures, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The training session was initially scheduled to start on Saturday, August 29, but was postponed to allow for medical examinations and clearance from the club's chief medical officer.
The Algerian government has not yet officially authorized Ligue 1 clubs to resume training. However, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has been tasked with examining the possibility of a gradual resumption of sports activities behind closed doors, subject to adapted health protocols for each discipline. The JS Kabylie management confirmed that the team is adhering to all necessary health measures.
The team's resumption of training marks a significant step towards a potential return to competition. JS Kabylie finished the 2019-2020 season, which was ultimately suspended due to the pandemic, in fourth place with 36 points. The team is led by coach Yamen Zelfani, who is assisted by Mourad Karouf and Aomar Hamenad.
The club's players underwent medical examinations before resuming training. The team's management expressed satisfaction with the players' condition and commitment to the training program. The resumption of training is a positive development for Algerian football, which has been severely impacted by the pandemic.
JS Kabylie's decision to resume training ahead of other clubs has raised questions about the potential for other teams to follow suit. The Algerian football federation has not yet announced a clear plan for the resumption of competitions. However, the JS Kabylie management remains optimistic about the team's prospects.
The team's next stage of preparation is expected to build on the physical conditioning work done during the initial training session. The club's management has confirmed that the team will continue to adhere to strict health protocols to ensure player safety. The resumption of training by JS Kabylie sets a precedent for other Algerian clubs.
Key points
- JS Kabylie resumes training amid COVID-19 pandemic
- Algerian government has not yet authorized Ligue 1 clubs to resume training
- Team follows strict health protocols to prevent spread of COVID-19
