Key Takeaways:
- Riyad Mahrez has stated he will retire from international football after competing at the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
- Mahrez contributed a goal and two assists in Algeria’s 3-0 win against Somalia, which secured their place at the 2026 World Cup.
- The 34-year-old winger has recorded 33 goals across 106 international appearances and currently plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia.
Retirement Announcement and World Cup Plans
Riyad Mahrez has revealed that the 2026 World Cup will be his last for the Algeria national team. The winger, who is now 34 and will turn 35 in February, conveyed his decision following Algeria’s qualification for the tournament, which will take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Q : Will you play in the 2030 World Cup?
🚨🗣️Riyad Mahrez (Algeria star) :
“No, 2026 WC will be my last. I'm not Cristiano Ronaldo (laughs 😂).” pic.twitter.com/Qzpl0oO02a
— 𝐂𝐀 𝐕𝐀?🐐🐐 (@psg_chief) October 10, 2025
Instrumental in Securing World Cup Qualification
Mahrez was pivotal in Algeria’s 3-0 triumph against Somalia, registering a goal and providing two assists. This victory not only underscored his ongoing influence on the national squad but also guaranteed Algeria’s participation in the next World Cup. In post-match comments to Algerian media, he stated, “This will be my last World Cup. I’m not Ronaldo (who is 40 years old). I will give my all again to have the best possible tournament.”
| Player | Age | International Goals | Appearances | Current Club |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Riyad Mahrez | 34 (35 in February) | 33 | 106 | Al-Ahli (Saudi Arabia) |
Mahrez Reflects on Qualifying Campaign
Reflecting on the team’s journey, Mahrez said, “We dominated the qualifiers from start to finish. The last win was very important, and I’m glad I helped with two assists. We’re happy to have officially qualified for the World Cup.” The former Manchester City winger emphasised his pride in contributing to Algeria’s successful qualification campaign.
Mahrez continues to represent Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia as he looks forward to his final international tournament before closing his chapter with the national side.
