Petkovic did not get the chance to explain his reasoning before kickoff between Argentina and Argelia. However, the decision appears to have been tactical and unrelated to either a physical setback or any definitive stance from the national team’s head coach. That is what journalist Nabil Djellit reported on his X account: “Probably a choice related to the opponent, not necessarily a definitive trend.”

Mahrez had shown no signs of pain, discomfort, or any other indication of a health issue heading into the match. Moreover, he captained Algeria during its final international friendlies before the start of the 2026 World Cup. That makes Petkovic’s decision all the more surprising and, to many fans, difficult to understand. Only time will tell whether Algeria come to regret being without their best player from the opening whistle against Argentina.

Last time Mahrez played full game for Algeria

As reported by Maher Mezahi on X, the last time Mahrez played a full match for Algeria was in January 2024. He is no longer considered fit enough to play the full 90 minutes consistently. Against a side like Argentina, Petkovic appears to believe Mahrez is better suited to a substitute role if needed.

In more ways than one, the decision felt like it had been a long time coming, but the real question was whether the head coach would dare leave the biggest name on the roster out of the starting lineup with the eyes of the world upon him. It’s clear now: Petkovic’s hand didn’t tremble..

Algeria’s French-influenced roster

Back in soccer’s biggest tournament for the first time since 2014, over a dozen French and foreign players will be representing Algeria in the 2026 World Cup. No other country has more French presence in the 2026 World Cup, aside from France, of course.

In fact, Algeria’s confirmed starting lineup against Argentina will have 8 out of the 11 players who were born overseas. Had Mahrez started, the Desert Warriors could have fielded nine foreign-born players in their starting XI.

Algeria’s starting XI vs Argentina

Luca Zidane, who is wearing a mask for Algeria vs Argentina at 2026 World Cup, will be in goal for the Fennecs. Aissa Mandi, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rafik Belghali, and Ramy Bensebaini will be on defense. Fares Chaibi, Hicham Boudaoui, Nabil Bentaleb, and Ibrahim Maza will feature at midfield.

Meanwhile, the attack will be led by Amine Gouiri and Anis Hadj Moussa. As big as the presences are, Mahrez’s absence may speak the loudest on Argelia’s first starting lineup of the 2026 World Cup.

According to The Mirror,Mahrezand model partner Taylor Wardgot married. They have reportedly tied the knowin a secret ceremonylate last yeara few months afterthey got engaged during a holiday.

Taylor Ward, 23, is the daughter of formersoccer player Ashley, 51, whoemerged from the Citizens’ ranks before he played for Norwich City, Derby County, Bradford City, among many others.

Man City’s Riyad Mahrez’marries in secret’ daughter of former Premier League player

Mahrez, 30, and Taylor Ward are understood to havegotten married in aceremony known asNikah, by whichthey became legally married under Islamic law, following thetraditions of the player’s religion.

This ceremony, however,which The Mirror claims it has been described as ‘short but sweet’, would be followed by alarger weddingin the future. Mahrez is now on international duty as he joined the Algeria national team ahead of the 2021 AfricaCup of Nations.

Mahrez and company willbegin the defense ofthe title they’ve conquered in 2019 by taking onSierra Leone on Tuesday. The following group stage affairs for Algeria will be vs.Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast. Manchester City, on the other hand, have a challenging task upfront againstChelsea beforea trip to Southampton.

That’s why they secured the signings of Sergio Aguero and Eric García, but according to a report by Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, they’re far from done spending. If anything, they want to add even more former Citizens to their ranks.

The report states that Barcelona President Joan Laporta has turned his attention to 4 Manchester City players. And, with Pep Guardiola reportedly eyeing Ousmane Dembeléand/or Sergi Roberto, there could be a swap in the works right as we speak.

Report: Barcelona Interested In 4 Manchester City Players

4. Bernardo Silva

Even though he has been one of the most reliable players since joining the Manchester City, Bernardo Silva has been losing ground in Guardiola’s pecking order. He’s a perfect fit for the Cule’s schemeand could be a part of a swap for Ousmane Dembelé.

3. Aymeric Laporte

Leftie center-back Aymeric Laportehas been linked with a move away from the team for some time now, and it seems like Real Madrid are also interested in his services. Barcelona are looking forward to reinforcing their final third of the roster with a top-notch player next to Samuel Umtiti.

2. Joao Cancelo

Joao Cancelo has reportedly been on Barcelona’s radar for the past two or three seasons. His versatility and ability to play on both flanks are some of the mainreasons why Ronald Koeman has made him a priority, and he could be swapped for Sergi Roberto.

1. Riyad Mahrez

The Blaugrana have kept tabs on Riyad Mahrez since he played for Leicester City. And even though he’s far from his best, he’s still a valuable piece that could make a huge impact coming off the bench. The Citizens want to sign Harry Kane and/or Jack Grealish, so he’d lose a lot of ground if that happens.