Riyad Mahrez in advanced talks over sensational short-term Manchester City return for Club World Cup

Riyad Mahrez is in advanced discussions with Manchester City over a potential short-term return, with the Algerian winger poised to rejoin the Premier League champions specifically for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

The 33-year-old, who left City in the summer of 2023 to join Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, is exploring a one-month loan agreement that would allow him to feature for Pep Guardiola’s squad during the tournament, which runs from 15 June to 13 July.

The move, made possible by a special FIFA provision, would see Mahrez temporarily reinforce his former club for what is expected to be one of the summer’s headline football events.

Sources close to the negotiations indicate that both parties are optimistic, with Guardiola reportedly enthusiastic about the possibility of Mahrez rejoining the squad.

The Spanish manager is said to be encouraged by the Algerian’s recent performances, which have shown a return to peak form and fitness.

Al Ahli, despite winning the AFC Champions League, are not eligible to participate in the Club World Cup, leaving the door open for Mahrez to seek involvement elsewhere.

FIFA regulations for the expanded 32-team tournament allow clubs to temporarily sign players on short-term deals to enhance squad depth and maintain competitive balance.

Mahrez’s vast experience, technical flair, and familiarity with City’s playing style make him a standout candidate for such a role.

Guardiola’s attacking unit has lacked its usual sharpness in recent months, and the addition of Mahrez could provide a timely creative boost.

During his initial spell at the Etihad, the former Leicester City star netted 78 goals and registered 56 assists in 236 appearances, winning 11 trophies, including four Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.

Mahrez’s departure from City was marked by a desire for a fresh challenge and a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. However, his affinity for the Manchester club and his continued hunger for high-level competition appear to be driving his interest in a temporary return.

Guardiola, who remains a strong admirer of Mahrez’s vision and composure, reportedly sees the winger as an ideal addition for the high-stakes matches in the United States.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is being positioned as a marquee event in the global football calendar. Featuring some of the world’s biggest stars, including Lionel Messi with Inter Miami and potentially Cristiano Ronaldo, who is rumoured to be negotiating with a new club, the tournament promises a festival of elite talent.

Mahrez’s involvement would only add to the spectacle, particularly for African fans, who continue to view the Algerian as one of the continent’s standout players.

Should the deal go through, Mahrez would return to a familiar environment under a manager who knows how to extract the best from him, even on a short timeline.

For City, it could prove to be a shrewd move to reintroduce a proven performer for one of the most ambitious global tournaments FIFA has ever staged.

The final decision is expected in the coming weeks as Mahrez, City, and Al Ahli work through the formalities. If successful, the Algerian international could be lining up once more in sky blue, chasing yet another trophy with the club where he enjoyed the most successful years of his career.