Arabian Gulf League strugglers Ittihad Kalba have today appointed ex-Algeria coach Abdelhak Benchikha as their new manager.

Bottom-placed Kalba, who have picked up just one point from six games upon their top-flight return, dispensed with Brazilian Vinicius Eutropio following Saturday’s damaging 3-2 defeat to fellow strugglers Ajman.

They entered the final stages of negotiations with Benchikha yesterday, who left Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca last month. An agreement with the 50-year-old was finalised prior to today’s basement clash at Fujairah.

“Inshallah, everything will be agreed and signed with Abdelhak tomorrow,” said Al Yamahi before today’s appointment.

Brazilian Junior had been linked with the post, but negotiations ended in the last few days. This opened the door for Benchikha.

The Algerian previously managed in the Middle East at Qatari-outfit Umm Salal, winning the second division title in 2006. He took over his national side following the 2010 World Cup, but resigned in June 2011 after a 4-0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying defeat to rivals Morocco.