Riyad Mahrez, capitaine dès ses premiers pas avec Al-Shamal ! (Vidéo) – DZfoot

Riyad Mahrez has been named captain of Al-Shamal on his first appearance with the Qatari club, according to a report by DZfoot. The Algerian international received the captain’s armband before entering the game during a 64th-minute substitution, signaling his immediate leadership role within the team. Mahrez, 35, also gave instructions to teammates during a stoppage in play, reinforcing his prominent status despite his recent arrival. The transfer, finalized on October 14, 2026, marks Mahrez’s sixth professional club. The player signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional season, joining Al-Shamal after leaving Al-Ahli following the conclusion of his previous contract. The Qatari club emphasized its ambition to strengthen its squad with Mahrez, who will also compete in the AFC Champions League, a competition he won twice with Al-Ahli in 2025 and 2026. Mahrez’s first competitive match with Al-Shamal is scheduled for November 23 against his former club, Al-Ahli, in the Qatar Stars League. Mahrez, 35, has earned 119 caps for Algeria, scoring 40 goals, and has joined Al-Shamal from Al-Ahli.

Immediate Leadership Role

DZfoot highlighted that Mahrez’s captaincy was a symbolic gesture upon his debut, despite his lack of starting inclusion. The report noted that his leadership extended beyond the pitch, as he directed teammates during a break in play. This decision emphasizes the trust placed in Mahrez by Al-Shamal’s coaching staff, who have prioritized his physical readiness over immediate competitive action. Coach David Prats stated his intention to ensure Mahrez returns to peak form before regular matches.

Contract and Future Matches

Al-Shamal confirmed Mahrez’s free transfer from Al-Ahli, with the club’s official video on social media celebrating his career achievements, including two AFC Champions League titles and a Premier League championship with Manchester City. The Qatari side aims to use Mahrez’s experience as it seeks to expand its continental ambitions, as outlined in a statement from the club. His debut against Al-Ahli on November 23 marks a new chapter following a period of inactivity since the World Cup. Mahrez’s contract includes an option for a second season, and he will wear the No. 26 jersey, a number he has previously associated with his career at Leicester City and Manchester City. The club’s statement also noted that Mahrez will train with players such as Baghdad Bounedjah, Youssouf Sabaly, and Wesley Saïd, who have previously played in Ligue 1.

Career Stats and Titles Won

At 35, Al-Shamal becomes the sixth club in Mahrez’s career, following Cambrai, Le Havre, Leicester City, Manchester City, and Al-Ahli. His professional journey includes 601 matches, 173 goals, and 130 assists, according to Source 3. Mahrez’s career has been marked by major titles, including the English Premier League with Leicester City, a UEFA Champions League title with Manchester City, and two consecutive AFC Champions League wins with Al-Ahli. His time at Leicester City was crucial, as he played a decisive role in their 2015-2016 Premier League triumph, a feat highlighted in Source 5. Under Pep Guardiola, Mahrez added four Premier League titles with Manchester City, bringing his total to five in England. His achievements with Al-Ahli include the 2025 and 2026 AFC Champions League titles, which he will now aim to replicate with Al-Shamal.

Club Ambitions and Fanfare Highlighted

Al-Shamal’s official video on social media featured highlights of Mahrez’s career, including goals for Algeria and Manchester City, with the caption: “His left foot wrote history, and our ambition will write the next chapter. Riyad Mahrez to Al-Shamal.” The club’s statement emphasized its desire to build on Mahrez’s experience as it targets success in both domestic and continental competitions. Mahrez’s arrival is part of Al-Shamal’s strategy to enhance its reputation, as the club has only one trophy in its history—the 1996 Qatar Super Cup. Mahrez’s first match with Al-Shamal will be against Al-Ahli, following his previous success with the Saudi club.