VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Riyad Mahrez, a five-time Premier League winner, announced his retirement from international soccer following Algeria´s World Cup exit, a 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the round of 32.
“There were good times and difficult times as well, of course. That´s part of a career,” he said afterward.
“But representing Algeria has been a dream of mine ever since I was young, to play for my country. It´s been an immense honour and a great source of pride,” he added according to AP.
He added: “It is the new generation´s turn to play.”
As he walked off the field following the match, Mahrez gave a thumbs-up, then patted his heart and waved to the fans.
Mahrez, who plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, has had an illustrious career at the club and international levels.
The 35-year-old forward retires with the second-most appearances for Algeria (119) and the second-most goals (40). Mahrez was a part of the Algerian team that won the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
At the domestic level, Mahrez won a Premier League title with Leicester City and four with Manchester City, as well as a Champions League title with Manchester City.
