Former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez joins Qatar’s Al Shamal on free transfer

File Image: Riyad Mahrez joined Qatar Stars League side Al Shamal on a free transfer after leaving Al Ahli in July 2026. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez has joined Qatar Stars League side Al Shamal on a free transfer following his departure from Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli, the Qatari club announced on Wednesday.

The 35-year-old Algerian had been without a club since leaving Al Ahli in July after three seasons, during which he helped the Jeddah-based side win back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles in 2025 and 2026.

Al Shamal confirmed the signing on social media, welcoming Mahrez as the club looks to strengthen its squad for the ongoing season.

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Mahrez began his professional career in France with Le Havre before joining Leicester City in 2014. He played a key role in the club’s Premier League title triumph in 2015-16 and was named African Footballer of the Year in 2016.

He subsequently moved to Manchester City, where he won four Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League before joining Al Ahli in 2023.

The world knows his name. Now he wears ours. Riyad Mahrez. 🔴⚪🇩🇿 https://t.co/CkCTpR3Ftk

— نادي الشمال الرياضي (@alshamal_club) October 14, 2026

Mahrez also helped Algeria win the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and represented the country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where it reached the round of 32. He announced his retirement from international football after the tournament, having scored 40 goals in 119 appearances.

Al Shamal currently sits fifth in the Qatar Stars League standings with eight points from five matches.