Mahrez still refuses the Algerian selection

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By: Manu Tournoux

Mahrez still refuses the Algerian selection

Riyad Mahrez continues to ignore calls from his new coach, Vladimir Petkovic.

Will we see Riyad Mahrez again in the Algeria jersey? The question deserves to be asked, because the former Manchester City player has snubbed the summons of the Fennecs coach since the last CAN.

Mahrez still ignores Petkovic

Last March, Mahrez asked Vladimir Petkovic to be excused from friendly matches against Bolivia and South Africa. A decision deemed understandable, but the one taken with a view to the resumption of the World Cup qualifiers, scheduled for June, is much less so.

Algeria successively challenges Guinea (June 6) and Uganda (June 10). In the event of good results, she could take a big step towards the 2026 World Cup. Pre-summoned for these meetings, the native of Sarcelles chose to decline. According to La Gazette du Fennec, he told Vladimir Petkovic that he was still in the reflection phase.

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Is this the end of the story between Mahrez and Algeria?

Algeria must cope without him

Mahrez has, however, been in interesting form for several weeks. He is the best passer in the Saudi championship. He joined Al-Ahli last summer after a long stay in Saudi Arabia.

Mahrez is one of the best players in the history of Algerian football. In 2019, he was the great architect of the CAN victory in Egypt. He is also the 2e best active scorer of this selection behind Islam Slimani (31 goals) and 3e most capped player (93 caps).

Manu Tournoux

Written by:

Manu Tournoux

Manu Tournoux is a passionate and knowledgeable football enthusiast with a special focus on French football. Born and raised in France, Manu discovered his love for the beautiful game at a young age and developed a deep understanding of the ins and outs of "Le Championnat." His French roots and extensive experience in football journalism have made him an invaluable asset to the French Football Weekly team. As an author for the website, his expertise includes not only in-depth analysis of Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 matches but also insightful profiles of up-and-coming talents, detailed transfer news, and engaging coverage of the French national team. His captivating writing style and undeniable passion for the game have earned him a loyal following among our readers. When he's not crafting engaging articles for French Football Weekly, Manu enjoys attending live matches whenever he can, exploring football culture in various French cities, and engaging in spirited debates with fellow fans.