Former Premier League MVP Riyad Mahrez has yet to return to Leicester City after staging a training boycott, drawing significant attention from fans and media alike. According to Crickex App sources, Mahrez has now missed an entire week of training, reportedly in protest after Leicester rejected a lucrative last-minute offer from Manchester City during the January transfer window.
Speaking ahead of the weekend clash with Manchester City, Leicester manager Claude Puel confirmed in a pre-match press conference that Mahrez would not be part of the squad. “I don’t think he will play on Saturday,” Puel stated. “I hope he comes back with a good attitude. The best thing for him now is to return, work hard, and enjoy football again.”
Puel emphasized that while Mahrez undoubtedly loves the game and values his teammates, the situation must be handled carefully. “It’s important to keep things inside the club rather than making everything public,” he said. “For me, the most important thing is keeping Mahrez, rebuilding unity with the fans, and managing this situation as a team.”
The manager also acknowledged that the team needs time — both to restore physical condition and to rebuild morale. “We must stay united and work together to get through difficult moments,” he added.
Mahrez’s absence has certainly impacted the team’s dynamics. His creativity and flair are crucial to Leicester’s attack, and his commitment has often been the spark behind many of their top performances. However, this current standoff suggests a deep frustration over missed opportunities, especially with a potential move to title-contending Manchester City blocked at the final hour.
As things stand, Leicester has issued fines in response to Mahrez’s no-show, but the door remains open for reconciliation. “He’s a very talented player,” Puel reiterated. “He enjoys playing football, and he cares about his teammates — that’s important.”
For now, all eyes are on Mahrez’s next move. Whether he chooses to make peace and rejoin the squad or push harder for a summer transfer remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Leicester, the fans, and Mahrez himself all need resolution — and soon.