Riyad Mahrez has made the decision to join Algeria’s upcoming training camp in June, despite a gruelling season in which he featured in 45 out of 48 matches for Al-Ahli Saudi FC and made seven additional appearances for the national team.
At 34, and with only friendlies against Rwanda and Sweden on the calendar, few would have blamed the veteran winger for taking a break.
But for Mahrez, commitment to the national team remains paramount.
“Some time ago, many people thought that Mahrez had little left to contribute to the national team,” noted one observer.
The period following Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph was marked by disappointment—early exits from the 2021 and 2023 tournaments and the painful failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup cast a shadow over his international legacy.
Tensions also flared with head coach Vladimir Petkovic.
A lack of communication between the two led to questions over Mahrez’s future with the national side, and his absence raised eyebrows.
It wasn’t until the September gathering that the two reconnected, and Mahrez returned to the squad with renewed purpose.
His return had immediate impact. Displaying the same technical brilliance and sharp instincts that defined his Manchester City days, Mahrez looked rejuvenated.
He appeared determined not just to silence critics but to lead by example, proving that he remains a force for Algeria on the international stage.
With Al-Ahli, Mahrez added to his growing list of accolades, guiding the club to an AFC Champions League title.
He scored nine goals and registered eight assists across 13 matches—a level of contribution that underlines his enduring class and fitness.
Yet even with a full season behind him, Mahrez turned down the option of rest.
By choosing national duty over early holidays, he signalled his intent to be a part of Algeria’s future, particularly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2025 AFCON on the horizon.
His leadership has been rewarded with continued trust from Petkovic, who retained him as team captain.
Mahrez’s international journey may be entering its final chapters, but he appears more motivated than ever to write a fitting end.
He was part of Algeria’s squad at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, but his involvement was fleeting—limited to a single appearance against Belgium.
Now, with 101 caps and countless moments of brilliance behind him, Mahrez looks ahead to the opportunity of a fuller, more defining presence on football’s grandest stage.
