By Neilley Claude EBESSA
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Riyad Mahrez has admitted his disappointment after Algeria’s quarter-final exit at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, suggesting that this may have been his final appearance at the continental tournament.
The Manchester City forward, who has represented Algeria for 12 years, spoke candidly about the highs and lows of his international career.
I don’t know what’s left for me with the national team. I’ve been here for 12 years, I’ve experienced highs and lows—that’s football,” Mahrez said. “This was my last AFCON, I’m sad it ended in the quarterfinals. I would have loved for us to win this trophy again, but unfortunately it won’t be possible.”
Mahrez’s career with the Desert Foxes has been decorated. He was named African Footballer of the Year in 2016 and played a starring role in Algeria’s 2019 AFCON triumph, scoring crucial goals and providing leadership that helped guide the team to glory. Over the years, he has been a talismanic figure for the national side, often turning matches with his dribbling, vision, and finishing ability.
Despite the disappointment in Morocco, Mahrez will continue his international career and is expected to be a key figure for Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, giving fans hope that he can still achieve more with the national team. At 34, and he has also enjoyed a stellar club career, winning multiple Premier League titles with Manchester City, further cementing his legacy as one of Algeria’s greatest-ever footballers.
As Algeria begins the process of rebuilding and preparing for the World Cup, Mahrez’s presence will remain invaluable—both on and off the pitch—as a mentor to younger players and a symbol of the nation’s footballing ambitions.
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