Former Italian international Christian Vieri (49 caps, 23 goals) has expressed his thoughts on Vladimir Petkovic, the new coach of the Fennecs, and the iconic Riyad Mahrez.
During a visit to Algeria representing the Italian Agency for Trade at an international economic event, the former striker spoke to local media on Tuesday, particularly praising the appointment of the coach who has previously managed Lazio Rome and the Swiss national team.
“Petkovic has succeeded in all his coaching experiences, and I believe he will also succeed with the Algerian national team. It’s a new adventure for him, but he has all the necessary skills to shine,” he assured. It’s worth noting that Petkovic began his tenure with two intense matches against Bolivia (3-2) and South Africa (3-3) in friendly matches at home in March.
“If he wants to shine with the national team…”
Regarding Algerian international Riyad Mahrez, a native of Bologna, Vieri praised his qualities. “Mahrez is an exceptional player, his age is not a hindrance to him. He has great technique and always contributes on the field. If he wants to shine with the Algerian national team, he will,” he affirmed. However, this assumes that he wants to return to the national team (he was absent from Petkovic’s first gathering) after a disappointing AFCON and the numerous criticisms he faced. According to the latest reports, the trend seems to lean towards a comeback.
