Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez Joins Al Shamal for New Chapter in Qatar
Former Manchester United teammates, now on opposite sides of the debate. Rooney questions CR7’s reaction to the Portugal controversy as Ronaldo continues scoring for Al Nassr.
Riyad Mahrez has found his next destination. The Algerian winger will continue his career in Qatar after ending his spell with Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli and joining Al Shamal as a free agent. At 35, the former Manchester City star begins a new chapter after retiring from international football with Algeria and leaving a significant mark on European soccer.
RIYAD MAHREZ'S MOVE TO AL SHAMAL IS CONFIRMED
Al Shamal announced Mahrez's signing on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, securing one of the most recognizable players of his generation. The Algerian arrives after three seasons with Al Ahli, where he won back-to-back editions of the AFC Champions League Elite in 2025 and 2026.
The Qatari club sits fifth in the Qatar Stars League, with eight points after five matchdays, and is counting on the winger's experience to strengthen its sporting project.
Mahrez arrives with an impressive résumé that includes titles in England and Saudi Arabia, as well as an outstanding international career. His technical ability, dribbling skills, and exceptional left foot could make him one of Al Shamal's leading attacking players.
THE STARS MAHREZ WILL FIND IN QATARI SOCCER
At Al Shamal, Mahrez will share the dressing room with players such as Baghdad Bounedjah, his former teammate with the Algerian national team, as well as footballers with European experience, including Pablo Marí and Jeison Murillo.
The signing is also notable because of the broader landscape of the Qatari league, which features other international stars at different clubs. Among them are Roberto Firmino, the former Liverpool striker; Marco Verratti, the former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder; Luis Alberto, who previously played for Lazio; and Joselu, who was part of Real Madrid's squad.
What do these stars have in common? They all have experience in top-level European soccer and have chosen to continue their careers in a competition seeking to attract international talent. Although they will not all be Mahrez's teammates, their presence reinforces Qatar's appeal as a destination for established players.
MAHREZ ENDS HIS ALGERIA CAREER AFTER SUCCESS IN EUROPE
The move to Al Shamal marks a new chapter for Mahrez following his announcement that he would retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup. The winger made 119 appearances for Algeria and scored 40 goals, while also playing a key role in the country's triumph at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
His club career has also produced historic achievements. With Leicester City, he played a leading role in the club's remarkable 2016 Premier League title. At Manchester City, he won four English league titles and the 2023 UEFA Champions League. Overall, he lifted five Premier League trophies.
After his time in England and his continental success with Al Ahli, Mahrez now faces a new challenge in Qatar. His experience and trophy collection make him one of the competition's most notable signings as he looks to extend his career and continue showcasing his talent outside Europe's major leagues.
KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM RIYAD MAHREZ'S MOVE TO AL SHAMAL
- A NEW CHAPTER IN QATAR: Riyad Mahrez joins Al Shamal as a free agent after ending his spell with Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli.
- SURROUNDED BY STARS: He will play alongside Baghdad Bounedjah and compete in a league featuring international names such as Roberto Firmino, Marco Verratti, and Joselu.
- A CAREER FULL OF TROPHIES: Following his retirement from Algeria's national team, the winger leaves behind a decorated career with Leicester City, Manchester City, and Al Ahli.
