Walid Sadi, the president of the Algerian Football Federation (FAF), joined the Algerian team during their visit to the Grand Mosque of Algiers on Sunday. Amidst this serene backdrop, questions about the notable absence of Riyad Mahrez, the star player, seemed to irk the federation president.
Following their triumph against Bolivia (3-2) on Friday, the Fennecs are gearing up to take on South Africa this Tuesday, continuing their participation in the FIFA Series friendly tournament held on home soil.
However, the focus remains on Riyad Mahrez, whose status with the national team is under scrutiny.
President Sadi tersely redirected inquiries about Mahrez’s situation to the team’s coach, Vladimir Petkovic, exhibiting clear irritation.
The Case of Riyad Mahrez: An Uncertain Future?
Since his transfer to Saudi Arabia last summer, the former Manchester City winger’s impact has waned.
His performance in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) underscored this decline, with zero goals and assists.
Mahrez faced heavy criticism for his lackluster showing in Ivory Coast during the tournament, a factor that may have influenced his absence from the national team.
Although Mahrez continues to shine for Al-Ahli, tallying nine goals in 24 matches in the Saudi championship, questions loom over his international career.
As Algeria prepares to face Guinea and Uganda in the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers in June, speculation mounts regarding Mahrez’s potential return to the squad.
However, uncertainties persist, casting doubts on the star’s future role within the Algerian national team.
💬 | Walid Sadi 🇩🇿 :
« La retraite internationale de Riyad Mahrez ? Demandez au sélectionneur national. »
(🗣️ @lapatrienews via @faridmca1921)pic.twitter.com/rSt6GXdP4K
— 𝗔𝗿𝗼𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗗𝘇𝗮𝗶𝗿 🇩🇿💫 (@arobasedzair2) March 24, 2024
