Riyad Mahrez set to join Qatari club Al Shamal after Al Shabab move falls through

Riyad Mahrez is expected to join Al Shamal in the next few hours, according to DZfoot, as the 35-year-old prepares to continue his club career in Qatar after leaving Al Ahli Jeddah.

The Algeria winger recently ended his international career after several years with the national team, but has no plans to retire from football altogether. The 2019 Africa Cup of Nations winner remains determined to continue playing at the highest level and has been looking for a new challenge since his departure from Saudi Arabia.

Mahrez’s future has been the subject of considerable speculation during the summer transfer window. Clubs in Italy, Spain, Turkey and Brazil were linked with the former Manchester City player.

Como were reported to have shown an interest, while Deportivo La Coruna and several Turkish clubs were also associated with him. In South America, Botafogo emerged as another possible destination.

Al Shabab move failed to materialise

The most serious possibilities, however, appeared to be in the Gulf region, where Mahrez has spent the recent period of his career.

A return to Al Ahli Jeddah was considered, with supporters hoping to see the former Manchester City player wear the club’s colours again. Instead, another Saudi Arabian side moved closer to securing his signature.

Mahrez was reportedly on the verge of joining Al Shabab, in a move first revealed exclusively by Africafoot. The transfer ultimately failed to go through, leaving the Algeria international searching for another opportunity.

That opportunity now appears likely to come in Qatar. DZfoot reports that Mahrez is set to sign for Al Shamal, with the agreement expected to be completed shortly.

Mahrez is currently in Dubai, where he is continuing his physical preparation to remain fit while he waits to return to club football. His time in the United Arab Emirates could therefore be the final stage before his move to Qatar is confirmed.

Asian Champions League challenge

A switch to Al Shamal would give Mahrez the chance to play in a league he has not previously experienced. The club finished as runners-up in Qatar and will also compete in the Asian Champions League this season.

That continental campaign could be an important factor in the move. Mahrez has won the Asian Champions League in each of the past two editions with Al Ahli, giving him significant experience of the competition.

His knowledge of the tournament could prove valuable to Al Shamal as they seek to challenge for honours domestically and compete against Asia’s leading clubs.

After spells in England, France and Saudi Arabia, Mahrez is now poised to begin a new chapter in Qatar. His aim remains to influence matches and use his experience to contribute to a new project, despite bringing his international career to an end.