Algerian midfielder Nabil Bentaleb has shared a compelling anecdote about Riyad Mahrez, offering a rare glimpse into the early ambition and self-confidence that would eventually shape one of Africa’s most decorated footballers.
Speaking in a recent interview with Kampo, Bentaleb recounted how, during their initial days together with the Algerian national team in 2014, Mahrez made a bold prediction that raised eyebrows in the dressing room.
At the time, Mahrez had only just begun making waves in English football, having signed for Championship side Leicester City from French club Le Havre.
“In 2014, Riyad joined the national team while still relatively unknown,” said Bentaleb, who has 53 caps for Algeria but has not featured for the national team since June 2024.
“He was playing in the English second division, and he calmly told us: ‘I will succeed. One day, I will play for Barça.’ Everyone laughed. No one really believed him. But he did.”
What may have sounded like wishful thinking to many at the time soon turned into one of football’s most remarkable success stories.
Mahrez’s rise from Ligue 2 to becoming a Premier League champion and Champions League winner is well documented.
But for Bentaleb, what stood out most was the sheer belief Mahrez had in his path, even when others doubted him.
“He never gave up. He worked hard and stayed focused,” Bentaleb added. “A few years later, he was a Premier League champion with Leicester, named the league’s best player in 2015–2016, and then went on to win numerous titles with Manchester City, including the Champions League.”
Although Mahrez never made it to Barcelona, as he had confidently predicted, his five-year spell at Manchester City solidified his status as one of the top players in the world.
Joining Pep Guardiola’s side in 2018, the Algerian winger lifted 12 major trophies, including four Premier League titles, and helped shape City’s dominant era.
Now playing for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, Mahrez continues to inspire the next generation of players—especially those of dual nationality.
For Bentaleb, Mahrez’s journey is more than just a tale of success on the pitch; it’s a blueprint for young players navigating the complexities of choosing a national team and daring to dream big.
“Riyad isn’t just a great footballer. He’s a symbol,” said Bentaleb, who currently plays for Lille.
“For all Algerians. For every dual national who’s unsure of their path, his story shows that you can aim high while representing Algeria.
You don’t have to choose between pride and ambition—you can have both.”
Bentaleb also revealed that he himself was courted by England early in his career.
After making his professional breakthrough with Tottenham Hotspur in 2014, he said efforts were made to convince him to switch allegiances, including the promise of representing England at Euro 2016. Despite the tempting offer, he remained committed to Algeria.
As Mahrez’s career enters its next chapter, his legacy as both a footballer and role model appears firmly secured—especially in the eyes of his peers.
“He’s not just a player,” Bentaleb concluded. “He’s an example.”
