Riyad Mahrez is one of the greatest footballers in Algeria’s history and one of Africa’s most successful players
Known for his incredible dribbling skills, creativity and ability to score important goals, Mahrez built a remarkable career at both club and international level.
In July 2026, Mahrez became one of the most talked-about footballers in the world after announcing his retirement from international football.
The decision came shortly after Algeria’s 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement marked the end of a memorable journey that lasted more than a decade with the Algerian national team.
His retirement has generated massive attention across football communities because Mahrez was not only Algeria’s captain but also one of the country’s most influential players of all time.
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Table of Contents
Who Is Riyad Mahrez?
Riyad Mahrez is a professional footballer from Algeria who plays as a right winger.1
He was born on February 21, 1991, in Clichy, France. Despite being born in France, he chose to represent Algeria at the international level and became one of the country’s biggest football stars.
Mahrez started his football journey in France before moving to England in 2014 when he signed for Leicester City.
His career reached new heights during the 2015-16 season when he helped Leicester City achieve one of the most surprising title wins in football history by winning the Premier League.
He was also named PFA Players’ Player of the Year that season.
Later, Mahrez joined Manchester City where he won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups and the UEFA Champions League.
In 2023, he moved to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia and continued to add trophies to his collection.
Throughout his career, Mahrez earned a reputation as one of the finest wingers of his generation.
Al Hamdulillah for everything ☝🏼🇩🇿 pic.twitter.com/lBh4nobTmc
— Riyad Mahrez (@Mahrez22) July 5, 2026
Early Life and Football Journey
Mahrez grew up in France and developed his football skills at local youth clubs. Unlike many football stars, his path to success was not straightforward.
He began his professional career with Quimper before joining Le Havre. During those years, he was often overlooked because of his slim build. However, his technical ability and ball control helped him stand out.
In January 2014, Leicester City signed Mahrez. At that time, few people expected him to become one of the Premier League’s best players.
His rise was extraordinary. Within two years, he became a league champion and one of the most respected attacking players in Europe.
View Profile
| Personal Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Riyad Karim Mahrez |
| Known As | Riyad Mahrez |
| Date of Birth | February 21, 1991 |
| Age | 35 (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Clichy, France |
| Nationality | Algerian |
| Height | 1.79 m (5 ft 10 in) |
| Preferred Foot | Left |
| Position | Right Winger |
| Current Club | Al-Ahli |
| National Team | Algeria (Retired in 2026) |
Leicester City Success Story
Mahrez’s time at Leicester City remains one of football’s greatest success stories.2
During the 2015-16 season, Leicester City shocked the football world by winning the Premier League despite being considered outsiders before the season started.
Mahrez was the team’s creative force. He scored goals, created chances and consistently delivered match-winning performances.
His contributions earned him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award.
Many football fans still consider that season one of the greatest individual campaigns by a winger in Premier League history.
Manchester City and Continued Excellence
In 2018, Mahrez completed a move to Manchester City.
Under manager Pep Guardiola, he became part of one of the strongest teams in European football.
During his time at City, Mahrez won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, League Cups and the UEFA Champions League.
He was especially known for scoring important goals in domestic and European competitions. His technical skills and experience made him an important member of the squad.
Mahrez finished his Premier League career with 284 appearances, 82 goals and 61 assists.
International Career with Algeria
Mahrez made his debut for Algeria in 2014 and quickly became one of the team’s most important players.
Over the years, he represented Algeria at multiple major tournaments including the FIFA World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations.
He captained the national team and became a symbol of Algerian football.
His most memorable achievement came in 2019 when he helped Algeria win the Africa Cup of Nations. The tournament victory remains one of the biggest moments in the country’s football history.
Mahrez’s leadership, creativity and goals played a major role in Algeria’s success during that era.
Playing Style of Riyad Mahrez
Riyad Mahrez is known for his elegant and technically gifted style of play.
Primarily operating as a right winger, he is recognized for his excellent ball control, creativity and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations.
Some key characteristics of Mahrez’s playing style include:
- Exceptional Dribbling: Uses quick footwork and close control to get past defenders.
- Left-Footed Threat: Often cuts inside from the right wing onto his stronger left foot to shoot or create chances.
- Creative Playmaker: Consistently provides assists through precise passing and vision in the final third.
- Clinical Finishing: Capable of scoring from inside the box, long-range efforts and free kicks.
- Composure Under Pressure: Known for staying calm in crucial moments and delivering in important matches.
- Technical Quality: Possesses outstanding first touch and ball retention skills.
- Versatility: Can play as a right winger, attacking midfielder or second striker when needed.
- Set-Piece Ability: Effective from free kicks and dangerous during attacking set plays.
Mahrez is often praised for his smooth and effortless style. Rather than relying on speed alone, he uses technique, balance and intelligence to create opportunities.
His ability to cut inside from the right flank became one of his trademark moves during his successful spells with Leicester City and Manchester City.
Former managers and analysts have frequently highlighted his creativity, flair and decision-making as qualities that make him one of the most accomplished African wingers of his generation.
Career Highlights of Riyad Mahrez
- Premier League champion with Leicester City (2015-16)
- Multiple Premier League titles with Manchester City
- UEFA Champions League winner
- 2019 Africa Cup of Nations winner with Algeria
- CAF African Footballer of the Year (2016)
- One of the most successful African footballers of his generation
Club Career Statistics
| Club | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Quimper | 27 | 1 |
| Le Havre II | 60 | 24 |
| Le Havre | 60 | 6 |
| Leicester City | 158 | 42 |
| Manchester City | 145 | 43 |
| Al-Ahli | 89 | 23 |
| Total | 539 | 139 |
International Statistics
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| National Team | Algeria |
| International Debut | 2014 |
| International Career Length | More than 12 Years |
| Caps | Around 119 |
| Goals | 40 |
| Major International Trophy | Africa Cup of Nations 2019 |
| Captain | Yes |
Riyad Mahrez Announces International Retirement
The football world was surprised when Mahrez announced his retirement from international football following Algeria’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Algeria’s campaign ended after a 2-0 loss to Switzerland in the Round of 32.
Shortly after the match, Mahrez confirmed that it was his final appearance for the national team.
The Algeria captain stated that his international journey had come to an end after years of representing the Desert Warriors.
The announcement was emotional for Algerian supporters. Mahrez had been a key figure in the national team for more than 12 years and played a major role in many of the country’s biggest football achievements.
His retirement officially closes one of the most successful chapters in Algerian football history.
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Riyad Mahrez’s Major Achievements and Awards
Mahrez has won numerous individual and team honors throughout his career.3
Some of his biggest achievements include:
- Premier League winner with Leicester City
- Five Premier League titles with Manchester City
- UEFA Champions League winner
- Africa Cup of Nations winner with Algeria
- CAF African Footballer of the Year 2016
- PFA Players’ Player of the Year 2016
- Multiple domestic cup titles in England
- AFC Champions League Elite winner with Al-Ahli
These achievements place him among the most decorated African footballers of all time.
Why Riyad Mahrez’s Retirement Matters
Mahrez’s retirement is significant because he represented a golden era for Algerian football.
For many years, he was the face of the national team. Younger players looked up to him while fans admired his commitment and leadership.
His retirement creates a gap that will be difficult to fill. Algeria now enters a new phase where emerging players will have to take responsibility and continue the legacy he leaves behind.
Many football experts consider Mahrez one of Algeria’s greatest-ever footballers due to his achievements at both club and international level.
Why Is Riyad Mahrez Trending?
Riyad Mahrez is trending after announcing his retirement from international football following Algeria’s 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32.
The Algeria captain confirmed after the match that it was his final appearance for the national team, ending a distinguished international career that lasted more than 12 years.
Legacy of Riyad Mahrez
Mahrez’s legacy goes far beyond statistics.
He inspired a generation of Algerian and African footballers by proving that players from the region can succeed at the highest level of world football.
His journey from lower-division football in France to becoming a Premier League champion and Champions League winner is a story of determination and hard work.
The unforgettable free kick against Nigeria in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations semifinal and Algeria’s eventual title victory remain defining moments of his international career.
Even after retirement from international football, Mahrez’s influence on Algerian football will continue for years.
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FAQ’s
Why did Riyad Mahrez retire from international football?
Mahrez retired after Algeria’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He announced his decision following the team’s 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32.
How old is Riyad Mahrez?
Riyad Mahrez was born on February 21, 1991. He is 35 years old as of 2026.
Which country does Riyad Mahrez represent?
Although he was born in France, Mahrez chose to represent Algeria at the international level.
What is Riyad Mahrez’s biggest international achievement?
His biggest international achievement is helping Algeria win the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Which clubs has Riyad Mahrez played for?
Mahrez has played for Quimper, Le Havre, Leicester City, Manchester City and Al-Ahli.
How many Premier League titles has Riyad Mahrez won?
Mahrez won one Premier League title with Leicester City and five with Manchester City, giving him six Premier League titles in total.
What position does Riyad Mahrez play?
He primarily plays as a right winger.
Conclusion
Riyad Mahrez’s retirement from international football marks the end of an unforgettable era for Algeria.
From his early days in France to lifting major trophies with Leicester City, Manchester City and Algeria, he built a career that few players can match.
His announcement after Algeria’s World Cup elimination brought an emotional conclusion to a journey that inspired millions of football fans around the world.
Mahrez leaves the national team as a captain, leader, champion, and one of the greatest players Algeria has ever produced.
While his international career is now over, his achievements and influence will remain a lasting part of football history.
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