Former Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez set for emotional Le Havre return

Former Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez is on the verge of completing an emotional return to French club Le Havre AC after all the necessary paperwork for the transfer was reportedly finalised.

The experienced winger has been without a club since the expiration of his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, making him one of the most sought-after free agents during the summer transfer window. However, his spell on the sidelines appears set to be short-lived, with a move back to familiar surroundings now imminent.

According to reports, Mahrez has agreed to rejoin Ligue 1 outfit Le Havre, the club where his professional career first took off. The report indicates that all contractual documents have been signed, leaving only the official announcement before the transfer is completed.

The move would mark a remarkable homecoming for the 35-year-old, who wore the Le Havre jersey between 2010 and 2012 before embarking on a journey that transformed him into one of African football’s greatest players.

Mahrez left the French club to join Leicester City, where he became one of the Premier League’s biggest success stories. He played a pivotal role in Leicester’s historic Premier League title triumph during the 2015/16 season, producing a string of outstanding performances that earned him widespread acclaim and individual honours.

His impressive displays in England later earned him a high-profile move to Manchester City, where he enjoyed the most successful period of his club career. Under Pep Guardiola, Mahrez won multiple Premier League titles, domestic cup competitions, and the UEFA Champions League, establishing himself as one of Europe’s elite attacking players.

Following his successful spell in England, the Algerian star moved to Saudi Arabia to join Al Ahli, bringing further quality and experience to the rapidly growing Saudi Pro League. After the expiration of his contract, speculation surrounded his next destination before Le Havre emerged as the frontrunner to secure his signature.

A return to Le Havre would carry significant sentimental value for Mahrez, as it was at the Normandy club that he developed into a promising young talent before making the leap to English football. More than a decade later, he now appears ready to begin a new chapter with the club that first gave him the opportunity to shine.

For Le Havre, the arrival of a player of Mahrez’s pedigree would represent one of the biggest signings in the club’s recent history. His wealth of experience, technical brilliance, creativity and leadership would provide a major boost as they prepare for the new Ligue 1 campaign.