Mahrez returns as Algeria releases squad for AFCON qualifiers

Algeria has announced their squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Equatorial Guinea and Liberia.

Vladimir Petkovic released his  26-man squad, with an inclusion of former captain, Riyad Mahrez.

The former Manchester City forward who currently plays for Al Ahli Saudi in Saudi Arabia, have not played for Algeria since March.

Following the disappointing AFCON performance, Mahrez opted to take a break from the national team, despite Algeria’s coach extending an invitation for his return.

He has missed four games since he took a break, friendlies against Bolivia and South Africa in March and two World Cup qualifying games against Guinea and Uganda.

However, without their star man, Algeria have won two games and drew one, losing only to Guinea in June.

Petkovic boys would hope to replicate the form into the AFCON qualifiers, alongside the boost from their captain’s return.

The squad contains three goalkeepers, ten defenders, four midfielders and nine attackers.

Alongside Mahrez, Ramy Bensebaini also returns into the squad. He last played for the Foxes against Bolivia in March, where he picked an injury.

Alexis Guendouz (Persepolis), Mohamed Farsi (Columbus Crew) and Amir Sayoud (Al Raed) receives their first call up into the Algerian squad.