French Coach’s Future at Algerian Vice-champions Uncertain

Franck Dumas is unsure of continuing as coach of JS Kabylie with uncertainty surrounding his future.

The erstwhile Monaco, Marseille and Newcastle United defender’s contract at the Algerian Premier League outfit officially ends at conclusion of this month.

The situation means he’s technically free to entertain suitors with the Kabylie board appearing to dig its heels over handing him a revised contract on improved terms.

Controversial club president Cherif Mellal, visibly irate about how matters panned out leading to his club’s second-place finish this season amid claims of conspiracy, has his heart set on going a step further  next campaign and has raised the bar.

This week, Mellal said anything less than the Algerian title would be considered an underachievement including the Total CAF Champions League at resumption of the championship.

Dumas is understood to be little apprehensive about the boss’ ambitions considering them somewhat “ridiculous”, stating modalities aren’t in place to ensure the reaching of such heights.

“I have an appointment with the manager. We have ambition next season. He must accept them otherwise we have plan B,” Mellal said.

Talks between the board and the gaffer’s agent haven’t gone as smooth as many had hoped, sparking reports club supporters have seen the last of the 51-year-old French tactician.

Compatriot Hubert Velud, club-less this moment after quitting Morocco’s Difaa, is being lined up as a replacement.

Some reports suggest negotiation is being scheduled this week by the movers and shakers of JSK in which they’re billed to convince Velud to take over the managerial reins.

Franck is credited for walking JSK back to the big time and guiding them to finish the season as second best –twelve months after they’d narrowly escaped demotion from the top tier.