Riyad Mahrez will not be present at the next training camp of the Algerian national team.
A recent report from a Saudi media outlet confirmed his absence, citing a lack of communication between Mahrez and the Swiss coach, Vladimir Petkovic. Mahrez had reportedly set certain conditions for his return to the national team, which were not met, leading to his continued absence.
Despite a phone call with Petkovic prior to the March camp, where he apologized for his absence due to lack of preparation and his considerations regarding his international future, Mahrez missed the friendly matches against Bolivia and South Africa. His absence from his club, Al-Ahli, due to knee pain further fuels speculation about his prolonged absence from the national team.
With 91 caps for Algeria, Mahrez is considered one of the team’s most iconic players, having contributed significantly to their historic victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and participating in the 2014 World Cup. His continued absence could pose a challenge for the national team, which relies on his experience and talent for the World Cup 2026 qualification campaign.
As Algeria prepares to face Guinea and Uganda without Mahrez, fans are eager for clarity on his international future. Meanwhile, the national team will have to rely on other players to fill the void and help secure qualification for the upcoming World Cup.
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