Riyad Mahrez has praised Ibrahim Maza’s work ethic, mentality and humility, saying the young Algeria midfielder has the qualities required to build a successful career.
Mahrez was speaking on Saturday after producing an outstanding performance in the Qatar Stars League, where Al-Shamal beat Al-Sailiya 5-0 on the ninth matchday of the championship.
The former Algeria captain scored once and provided three assists in the victory. After the match, he used his appearance in the mixed zone to highlight Maza’s progress and his potential with the national team.
Maza, 20, finished ninth in the Kopa Trophy, which recognises the best young player of the season. He is regarded as one of the leading prospects for Algeria and as an important figure in the future of the country’s football.
Although Mahrez retired from international football after Algeria’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup, he continues to follow the national team closely. His assessment of Maza was particularly positive, having worked alongside him with the Fennecs.
The midfielder, who was born in Berlin, plays for Bayer Leverkusen. Mahrez praised not only his approach to training but also the attitude and modesty he has shown while developing his career.
Those characteristics, according to Mahrez, provide Maza with a strong foundation for what could become a major career. He also responded to questions about similarities between Maza’s emergence and his own early years in football, reinforcing his admiration for the youngster.
Mahrez did not limit his comments to Maza, instead referring to the wider group of young players who represent the next generation of Algeria’s national side.
The praise came after a decisive contribution from Mahrez himself in Al-Shamal’s emphatic victory. His performance included direct involvement in four of the five goals, underlining his influence in the Qatar Stars League despite his decision to end his international career.
Mahrez made 119 appearances for Algeria and scored 40 goals during his time with the national team. He remains attentive to the progress of the Fennecs and has identified Maza as one of the players capable of shaping their future.