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July 27, 2026Sources cited
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Riyad Mahrez

Riyad Mahrez is an Algerian professional footballer who plays as a winger or attacking midfielder.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Riyad Mahrez is an Algerian professional footballer who plays as a winger or attacking midfielder. He is known for his spells with Leicester City and Manchester City, where he won multiple domestic titles and the UEFA Champions League, and for representing Algeria internationally. Born in Sarcelles, France, he began his youth career at AAS Sarcelles before turning professional with Quimper.

Early life and youth career

Mahrez was born in Sarcelles, France, to an Algerian father and a mother of Algerian and Moroccan background. He developed at AAS Sarcelles before beginning his senior career in France.

Club career

Mahrez turned professional with Quimper in 2009 before moving to Le Havre. He joined Leicester City in January 2014 and helped the club win the 2015–16 Premier League.

Mahrez transferred to Manchester City in 2018 and won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, EFL Cups, and the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League. He later joined Al-Ahli, with his contract reported as terminating on 4 July 2026.

International career

Although born in France, Mahrez chose to play for Algeria at senior international level. He has appeared at major tournaments, including FIFA World Cups and several Africa Cup of Nations editions, and was part of the squad that won the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Honours and recognition

Mahrez has won major club honours in England and continental success with Manchester City. He has been recognised as one of Africa's leading footballers, including being named African Footballer of the Year in 2016.

Key facts

  • Born in Sarcelles, France, Mahrez began his youth career at AAS Sarcelles.
  • He turned professional with Quimper in 2009 before moving to Le Havre.
  • Mahrez joined Leicester City in January 2014 and helped the club win the 2015–16 Premier League.
  • He transferred to Manchester City in 2018 and won multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, EFL Cups, and the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League.
  • He has represented Algeria internationally and was part of the squad that won the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
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Canadian context

Mahrez is relevant to Canadian readers through international soccer coverage, particularly major tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations, which are followed by Canadian sports audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What position does Riyad Mahrez play?
He primarily plays as a winger, especially on the right, and can also operate as an attacking midfielder.
Which clubs has Riyad Mahrez played for?
His senior clubs include Quimper, Le Havre, Leicester City, Manchester City, and Al-Ahli.
What did Riyad Mahrez win with Leicester City?
He was part of Leicester City’s Premier League-winning team in 2015–16.
What are Riyad Mahrez’s major honours with Manchester City?
He won several Premier League titles, domestic cups, and the UEFA Champions League with Manchester City.
Which national team does Riyad Mahrez represent?
He represents Algeria at international level.
Was Riyad Mahrez born in Algeria?
No. He was born in Sarcelles, France, and later chose to represent Algeria internationally.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riyad_Mahrez
    Supports: Career timeline and reported contract termination date.
  2. Premier League — https://www.premierleague.com/en/players/103025/riyad-mahrez/overview
    Supports: Nationality, date of birth, appearances, goals, and assists.
  3. BBC Sport — https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/35688719
    Supports: Early life, move to Leicester City, and background details.
  4. Sportskeeda — https://www.sportskeeda.com/player/riyad-mahrez
    Supports: Birth date, nationality, position, and overview biography.
  5. Transfermarkt — https://www.transfermarkt.com/riyad-mahrez/profil/spieler/171424
    Supports: Current team, position, place of birth, dominant foot, and contract expiry.
  6. MLSsoccer.com — https://www.mlssoccer.com/players/riyad-mahrez/
    Supports: Position and club history overview.