Algerian football star Riyad Mahrez has found himself under the scrutiny of fans and pundits alike, as concerns about his recent performances continue to mount. The forward, who currently plies his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli, faced criticism for his subdued showing in the opening match against Angola during the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
During the encounter against Angola, Mahrez appeared to struggle to make a significant impact on the game, prompting questions about his form and effectiveness on the field.
Algerian supporters and journalists alike expressed their perplexity over his extended playing time in the match, where he failed to make a decisive contribution.
In response to the growing concerns and criticisms surrounding Mahrez’s performance, Algeria’s coach Djamel Belmadi addressed the issue head-on during a press conference on Friday.
Belmadi, in a firm and unwavering tone, defended the decorated forward, emphasizing Mahrez’s remarkable achievements in the sport.
“Criticism against Mahrez is nothing new. He’s a European champion, he doesn’t care about these criticisms,” Belmadi asserted, seeking to quell the rising discontent surrounding the star player.
While Belmadi’s response might not entirely assuage the concerns of critics, it underscores the unwavering support and confidence the coach has in Mahrez’s abilities.
As Algeria navigates through the challenges of the AFCON tournament, all eyes will remain on Mahrez, eager to witness whether the talented forward can rise to the occasion and silence his detractors on the pitch.
