Former Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has joined Qatari club Shamal as a free agent after leaving Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, bringing an end to a decorated three-year spell in Jeddah.
Shamal confirmed the signing on Wednesday, welcoming the 35-year-old winger as they look to strengthen their squad for the Qatar Stars League campaign.
“His left foot made history, and our ambition is writing the next chapter. Riyad Mahrez in Shamal colours,” the club announced on X.
Mahrez leaves Al Ahli after helping the Saudi side win back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles in 2025 and 2026, adding to an already impressive collection of honours across European and Asian football.
Before moving to Saudi Arabia, the Algerian established himself among the leading players of his generation in England.
He rose to prominence at Leicester City, whom he joined in 2014 and helped inspire to a remarkable Premier League title triumph in the 2015/16 season.
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His performances earned him the 2016 African Footballer of the Year award before he moved to Manchester City, where he won four Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.
Mahrez also enjoyed considerable success with Algeria, playing a key role in their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
Born in France, he scored 40 goals in 119 international appearances before announcing his retirement from international football following this year’s World Cup.
His move to Shamal offers a fresh challenge in the Qatar Stars League after his successful spell in Saudi Arabia.
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Shamal sit fifth in the league standings with eight points from five matches, and Mahrez’s arrival adds experience and a proven record of success to their squad.
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