Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has announced his retirement from international football following his country’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing the curtain down on one of the most successful international careers in Algerian football history.
The 35-year-old confirmed his decision after Algeria’s 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32, saying the time had come for a new generation of players to lead the Desert Foxes.
“It’s been an immense honor and a great source of pride. It is the new generation’s turn to play.” Riyad Mahrez said after the match, signaling the end of his journey with the national team.
Mahrez Brings an End to a Memorable International Career
Mahrez’s retirement marks the conclusion of a career that spanned more than a decade and saw him become one of Algeria’s greatest-ever footballers.
Since making his senior debut in 2014, the winger established himself as a key figure for the national team, combining creativity, leadership and consistent performances on the international stage.
He leaves international football with 119 appearances and 40 goals, placing him among Algeria’s most-capped players and leading goal scorers.
Among Mahrez’s many achievements, leading Algeria to victory at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) stands out as the defining moment of his international career.
As captain, he inspired the Desert Foxes throughout the tournament, helping the team secure its second continental title. His leadership and performances earned widespread praise and cemented his place among the country’s football legends.
Emotional Farewell After World Cup Elimination
Speaking after Algeria’s exit from the World Cup, Mahrez reflected on what representing his country had meant to him.
He described wearing the Algerian jersey as one of the greatest honours of his career and thanked supporters who stood by the team throughout his international journey.
While acknowledging the disappointment of ending his career with a World Cup defeat, Riyad Mahrez expressed confidence in the future of Algerian football.
He said the next generation has the talent and determination needed to build on the foundation laid by the current squad.
A Career Filled With Success
Away from international football, Riyad Mahrez has enjoyed one of the most decorated club careers of any African player.
He rose to global prominence after helping Leicester City win the historic 2015-16 Premier League title before joining Manchester City, where he added multiple league championships, domestic trophies and the UEFA Champions League to his collection.
Riyad Mahrez currently plays for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. His achievements at both club and international level have made him one of Africa’s most accomplished footballers of his generation.
Mahrez’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Algerian national team.
As the Desert Foxes begin planning for future international competitions, attention will now turn to a younger group of players expected to carry the team forward.
Although Mahrez’s international career has come to an end, his contribution to Algerian football is expected to leave a lasting legacy.
From lifting the Africa Cup of Nations trophy to leading his country on the world’s biggest stage, he departs as one of Algeria’s finest football ambassadors.
