Riyad Mahrez has announced that he is stepping away from international football after Algeria’s World Cup campaign ended with a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the round of 32 on Thursday.
Key takeaways
- Riyad Mahrez said he is retiring from international duty following Algeria’s World Cup exit.
- Algeria were beaten 2-0 by Switzerland in the round of 32.
- Mahrez, 35, made 119 appearances for Algeria and scored 40 goals.
- The forward has won five Premier League titles and also holds a Champions League medal with Manchester City.
- He was part of Algeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations-winning squad.
Mahrez reflects after Algeria’s exit
Speaking after the match, Mahrez looked back on the full arc of his career, noting that both joyful moments and tougher spells are part of any journey.
He added that pulling on the Algeria shirt has been a long-held ambition since his youth, describing the experience as a major privilege and something he holds with deep pride.
Mahrez also pointed to the future, saying the time has come for the next generation of players to take over.
As he left the pitch, he offered a thumbs-up, then tapped his chest and waved to the supporters in a gesture that underscored his appreciation for the fans.
Club achievements and Algeria legacy
Mahrez, who currently plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, has built an accomplished record both at club level and with the Algeria national team.
At 35, he departs international football as the country’s second-highest appearance maker, with 119 caps, and the second-leading scorer, with 40 goals.
Internationally, he was involved in Algeria’s triumph at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
At club level, his trophy haul includes a Premier League title with Leicester City, four Premier League crowns with Manchester City, and a Champions League title with City as well.
