Djamel Belmadi (born 25 March 1976) is an Algerian former professional footballer and current football manager. He is best known for his tenure as the head coach of the Algeria national team, which he led to victory at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Early life and playing career
Belmadi was born in Champigny‑sur‑Marne, France, to Algerian parents. He began his football career in the French youth system, joining the youth academy of Stade de Reims before moving to professional clubs. As a midfielder, his senior playing career spanned from 1995 to 2008 and included stints at:
- Stade de Reims (France)
- Marseille (France)
- Paris Saint‑Germain (France)
- Middlesbrough (England)
- Valenciennes (France)
- Al‑Sadd (Qatar)
- Al‑Ittihad (Saudi Arabia)
During his club career, Belmadi made over 200 league appearances and scored 30+ goals. Internationally, he earned 46 caps for the Algeria national team between 1995 and 2002, scoring three goals. He represented Algeria at the 1998 African Cup of Nations.
Coaching career
Club management
- Al‑Sadd (2008–2011): After retiring as a player, Belmadi became head coach of Al‑Sadd in the Qatar Stars League, winning three consecutive league titles (2009–2011) and the 2009 AFC Champions League.
- Al‑Duhail (2013–2014): He managed the Qatari club for one season.
- Al‑Shabab (2015): Brief tenure in Saudi Arabia.
National team management
- Algeria national team (2018–present): Appointed in August 2018, Belmadi implemented a possession‑based style and integrated young talent. Under his leadership, Algeria qualified for the 2019 AFCON, winning the tournament unbeaten. The team also qualified for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, reaching the Round of 16.
Style of play and managerial philosophy
Belmadi is noted for emphasizing tactical discipline, fluid attacking movement, and a strong defensive organization. His teams often employ a 4‑3‑3 formation, focusing on quick transitions and retaining possession.
Honours
As player
- Ligue 2 champion: 1999–2000 (Stade de Reims)
As manager
- Qatar Stars League: 2008–09, 2009–10, 2010–11 (Al‑Sadd)
- AFC Champions League: 2009 (Al‑Sadd)
- Africa Cup of Nations: 2019 (Algeria)
Personal life
Belmadi holds both Algerian and French citizenship. He is the son of former Algerian international Mohamed Belmadi. He is married and has children.
References
- National‑Football‑Teams.com player profile
- FIFA.com coaching records
- Confederation of African Football (CAF) tournament archives
All information presented is based on publicly available, verifiable sources.
