Riyad Mahrez steps into a high-profile battle with Cristiano Ronaldo for the Middle East Player of the Year award at the Globe Soccer Awards, after the first round of public voting closed with the Algerian forward drawing a huge wave of support.
Mahrez impressed voters throughout the opening phase and strengthened his position as one of the region’s most influential players.
His strong showing reflects both his popularity and the impact he delivered during a standout season with Al-Ahli.
The first stage of voting served only as a warm-up. Organisers will reveal the finalists on 3 December, before a fresh round of voting decides the winner.
Based on recent trends and previous rankings, Mahrez, Ronaldo and Saudi star Salem Al-Dawsari look set to form the final trio as they continue to dominate fan engagement.
Mahrez enters the decisive phase with real momentum. His season in Asia stands among the most impressive of his career.
He played a central role in Al-Ahli’s Champions League campaign, drove the club to a historic continental triumph and earned recognition as the tournament’s best player.
His numbers mattered, but his influence, leadership and consistency left the strongest mark on the Saudi side’s season.
The final vote promises tension as Ronaldo remains a global favourite, yet Mahrez’s current surge — backed by his performances and media presence — gives him a genuine chance to add another major honour to an already decorated career.
Take a look at how the voting for 𝗕𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗠𝗶𝗱𝗱𝗹𝗲 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 is shaping up! 🥵 Just hours to go!
Have your say before it closes ➡️ https://t.co/dFEMQ828yH
#BEYONDDevelopments #Beyond #SaltanatDiamondJewellery #globesoccer pic.twitter.com/zUaG8QeOgn— Globe Soccer Awards (@Globe_Soccer) November 27, 2025
