Riyad Mahrez is on the verge of signing for Qatari side Al Shamal SC, according to reports. The Manchester City legend has been a free agent since leaving Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli in July. Mahrez scored twice for Algeria at the 2026 World Cup before bidding farewell to the international gameGettyMahrez showed his enduring class at the 2026 World Cup with two goals in four games for Algeria before they were eliminated in the round of 32. He subsequently announced his retirement from international football. Now, multiple reports claim the 35-year-old is making a return to domestic football in Qatar. It is understood Al Shamal SC, who also boast ex-Arsenal defender Pablo Mari in their ranks, have verbally agreed a deal to sign Mahrez. The move is expected to be confirmed imminently. How did Mahrez perform in Saudi Arabia? The five-time Premier League winner bagged 37 goals and 38 assists in 122 total appearances across all competitions for Al Ahli. He joined from Man City in a deal worth £30million as part of the Saudi club’s blockbuster recruitment drive in 2023. Superstar talents Roberto Firmino, Edouard Mendy, and Franck Kessie also signed that summer, while Ivan Toney arrived in 2024.Working under current Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle, Mahrez proved one of the most successful marquee signings in the Saudi Pro League. The silky winger was highly influential as Al Ahli won the AFC Champions League Elite twice and the Saudi Super Cup. Mahrez has five Premier League winners’ medals to his nameGettyMahrez will be reunited with his former club when they face Al Shamal in the AFC Champions League Elite later this season. Paying tribute to the former Leicester star upon his exit earlier this year, Al Ahli said: “Three unforgettable years. Countless magical moments. “A legacy that will forever live in the hearts of every Al Ahli fan.”Speaking at the time, Mahrez said: “To my teammates… thank you for everything we shared.“I was fortunate to experience unforgettable moments with you, win trophies, write a chapter in the history of this club and build bonds that will always be stronger than football.”He added: “I am proud that I fought alongside you until the very end.Mahrez played a core role in both AFC Champions League elite triumphsGetty“I always tried to put the team, the coaching staff and the club first, sometimes even ahead of my own personal interests, because I truly believed in this project and in the people behind it.“I leave with my head held high, knowing I stayed loyal to my teammates, the coaching staff, the club and its fans until the very end.”