Riyad Mahrez, one of Algeria’s most celebrated footballers, continues to decline invitations to join the national team under the new leadership of coach Vladimir Petkovic. This persistent refusal raises questions about whether fans will see Mahrez don the Algerian jersey again.
Since the conclusion of the last Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the former Manchester City star has consistently snubbed the national team’s summons.
His latest refusal came last March when he asked to be excused from friendly matches against Bolivia and South Africa, a decision that was initially met with understanding.
However, Mahrez’s recent decision to withdraw from the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers has been met with less sympathy.
Algeria is set to face Guinea on June 6 and Uganda on June 10, crucial matches that could significantly bolster their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
Despite being pre-summoned for these fixtures, Mahrez, according to La Gazette du Fennec, informed Petkovic that he is still in a “reflection phase.”
This ongoing uncertainty puts Algeria in a challenging position as they prepare for these vital qualifiers without one of their star players.
Despite his absence, Mahrez has been in remarkable form at the club level, currently leading the Saudi Pro League in assists.
He joined Al-Ahli last summer, continuing to impress after a distinguished career in Europe.
Mahrez’s legacy in Algerian football is significant. He was instrumental in Algeria’s AFCON victory in Egypt in 2019, and he ranks as the second-highest active scorer for the national team with 31 goals, just behind Islam Slimani.
Additionally, he is the third most-capped player in Algerian history, with 93 appearances.
As Algeria looks ahead to their upcoming matches, the team must adapt to competing without Mahrez.
His decision to remain on the sidelines leaves a notable gap, but it also offers an opportunity for other players to step up and make their mark on the international stage. T
he national team will need to rally and find new strategies to secure their path to the 2026 World Cup.
