Algerian football club MCO Alger is facing uncertainty in its management after the sudden withdrawal of Amer Mansoul as sports director and spokesperson. The club had announced Mansoul's appointment on September 20, citing his professional experience and qualifications, including a UEFA Pro license and a professional sports director certification from Italy. However, just days later, the club announced that no final agreement had been reached with Mansoul due to disagreements over contract terms.
The reversal of Mansoul's appointment has raised questions about the club's management and decision-making process. Sources close to the club suggest that the backlash from fans on social media, who expressed their opposition to Mansoul's appointment, may have contributed to the club's change of heart. Fans had criticized Mansoul's previous experiences as technical director of the Algerian Football Federation and as coach of JS Kabylie, labeling them as unsuccessful.
Other sources suggest that Mansoul had made additional demands, including a personal car, international phone plan, and private accommodation, which were not part of the initial agreement. These demands were reportedly rejected by the club's board of directors, leading to the collapse of the deal. Mansoul was reportedly offered a monthly salary of 110 million Algerian dinars and bonuses tied to match results and goals.
Before Mansoul's appointment, other candidates had been mentioned, including former international player Mourad Slatni, who had met with the club's president, Yakobbi, and board member Abdel Nour Kaoua. However, Mansoul's appointment was seen as a surprise by some, with speculation that it may have been influenced by the president of the Algerian Football Federation, Walid Sadi.
Meanwhile, the club's newly appointed general coordinator, Faicel Baji, is also facing uncertainty. His appointment was reportedly conditional on the club settling outstanding financial claims from his previous experience as a player. Baji had agreed to temporarily postpone this issue and has started working, but his long-term position remains unclear.
In the midst of this turmoil, the name of former club president Hakim Hadj Raggem has resurfaced as a potential candidate for the sports director position. Hadj Raggem had expressed interest in the role earlier but was rejected. Sources suggest that he may be willing to return to the club, potentially due to the financial benefits associated with the position, including a monthly salary of up to 200 million Algerian dinars.
According to recent reports, the club's board of directors has ruled out reappointing Hadj Raggem and instead plans to temporarily entrust Faicel Baji with the responsibility of managing the first team. The club is also considering recruiting a qualified candidate from France for the sports director position. The uncertainty surrounding MCO Alger's management has raised concerns among fans and observers alike.
Key points
- MCO Alger's management uncertainty may impact the team's performance.
- The club's board of directors is considering recruiting a qualified candidate from France.
- Former president Hakim Hadj Raggem may return to the club in a different role.
