NZ
IND
NAM
IRE
MOZ
UGA
Aston Villa
Man City
Rayo
Elche
GMB
ZMB
NGA
LES
Cagliari
Bologna
IPS1
NFO1
ALA1
MCF1
TOR3
MON2
BRE1
NICE2
TAS129/7 (23.3/35 ov, target 276)
VIC304/7 (50 ov)
WA
NSW38/1 (9/50 ov)
NZ-A135/3 (41 ov)
IND-A113
DHA
RAJ
MYMS
CHATT
RAN
BAR
SYL
KHU
MEX-W
ARG-W
UAE
NED
AFG170/3 (34.3/50 ov, target 170)
ZIM169
IND-W200/1 (27.1/50 ov, target 198)
ZIM-W197
DOLPH56/0 (3.5/8 ov, target 56)
SWD51/4 (8/8 ov)
WSW1
BRI1
Como
Sassuolo
Augsburg
Union Berlin
Cologne
Schalke
Mainz
Bremen
RB Leipzig
Elversberg
VFB2
BMG3
AHL4
KHA1
Riyad Mahrez has verbally agreed to join Qatari side Al-Shamal SC, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, ending months of speculation over the Algerian winger’s next move since becoming a free agent in the summer. The deal, first reported by Algerian outlet DZfoot, is in place on a short-term contract, with formalities still to be completed before an official announcement.
How the Move Came Together
Mahrez has been without a club since his contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli expired at the start of July 2026. According to Qatari outlet Winwin, he opted for Al-Shamal’s proposal despite reported interest from clubs in England, MLS, and elsewhere in the Qatari league, prioritising the chance to compete for continental honours.
Reports from L’Équipe, citing DZfoot, describe the structure as a one-year deal with an option for a second season. Mahrez has reportedly been training in Dubai with a personal trainer to maintain his fitness during his time as a free agent, and is expected to undergo a medical with Al-Shamal before the move is formally completed.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Riyad Mahrez |
| Age | 35 |
| Nationality | Algeria |
| Previous Club | Al-Ahli (Saudi Arabia) |
| New Club | Al-Shamal SC (Qatar) |
| Contract Status | Verbally agreed, short-term deal |
| Reported Structure | One year, with option for a second |
| Free Agent Since | Early July 2026 |
| Al-Shamal’s League Position | 3rd in Qatar Stars League |
Life After Al-Ahli
Mahrez spent three seasons with Al-Ahli after joining from Manchester City for a reported £30 million in 2023. During that spell, he made 122 appearances across all competitions, scoring 37 goals, and played a key role in helping the club win the AFC Champions League Elite title in consecutive seasons.
Before his move to Saudi Arabia, Mahrez spent five years at Manchester City, winning the Premier League title on multiple occasions and lifting the UEFA Champions League, following an earlier breakthrough at Leicester City after joining the club in January 2014.
A Reunion on the Continental Stage
The timing of the move has created an immediate talking point, with Al-Shamal already qualified for this season’s AFC Champions League Elite and scheduled to face Mahrez’s former club, Al-Ahli, in the group stage on 23 November. At Al-Shamal, Mahrez would join a squad that already includes several experienced European-based players, including former Ligue 1 forward Wesley Saïd and defender Youssouf Sabaly, as well as ex-Arsenal centre-back Pablo Marí.
International Career
Mahrez is one of Algeria’s most recognisable footballers, having represented the national team across more than a decade. He has since stepped away from international duty, with reports indicating his decision followed Algeria’s exit from this year’s World Cup.
What Happens Next
With the verbal agreement now in place, the formalities, including a medical examination, are expected to be completed in the coming days before Al-Shamal confirm the signing officially. Barring any unexpected developments, Mahrez is set to begin the next chapter of his career in the Qatar Stars League.
Read More: Fulham Manager Álvaro Arbeloa Charged With Misconduct Over Manchester United Comments
