The rise of Riyad Mahrez from an overlooked winger to one of the Premier League’s greatest success stories is well documented. The Algerian international played a key role in Leicester City’s astonishing 2015/16 Premier League title triumph and later enjoyed further success with Manchester City. However, what many football fans may not know is that Leicester had their eyes on another future World Cup star before eventually signing Mahrez.
That player was former Nottingham Forest winger Adlene Guedioura, a midfielder known for his energy, powerful shooting, and combative style. Guedioura, who represented Algeria on the international stage, was highly regarded during his time in English football and attracted interest from several clubs, including Leicester City.
Born in France but representing Algeria through his family heritage, Guedioura built a reputation as a hardworking and versatile midfielder. He enjoyed spells with clubs such as Wolverhampton Wanderers, Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, Watford, and Middlesbrough. During his career, he became a fan favourite at Forest thanks to his commitment and memorable long-range goals.
Before Leicester struck gold with Mahrez in 2014, the club reportedly explored the possibility of signing Guedioura. At the time, Leicester were looking to strengthen their squad with players capable of helping them establish themselves in the Premier League. Guedioura’s experience in English football and his international pedigree made him an attractive option.
While a move never materialised, Leicester’s interest highlighted the club’s growing focus on identifying talented Algerian players. That strategy would soon pay off spectacularly when they secured Mahrez from French side Le Havre for a modest fee. Few could have predicted just how influential Mahrez would become.
Mahrez quickly developed into one of the most exciting attacking players in England. His dazzling dribbling, creativity, and eye for goal helped transform Leicester from relegation candidates into Premier League champions. He was named the PFA Players’ Player of the Year during the title-winning campaign and later moved to Manchester City, where he added multiple league titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy to his collection.
Meanwhile, Guedioura continued to enjoy a respected career both domestically and internationally. He represented Algeria at major tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup. One of the highlights of his international career came during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where Algeria reached the knockout stages for the first time in their history before narrowly losing to eventual champions Germany.
Although Guedioura never achieved the same level of club success as Mahrez, his contribution to Algerian football remains significant. He was part of a generation that helped raise the profile of Algerian football on the global stage and inspired many young players across North Africa.
Looking back, Leicester’s interest in Guedioura serves as a fascinating “what if” story. Had the Foxes completed that move, their recruitment path may have unfolded differently. Instead, circumstances led them to Mahrez, a signing that would become one of the greatest bargains in Premier League history.
Football history is often shaped by decisions that seem minor at the time. Leicester’s pursuit of Guedioura before Mahrez is a reminder that behind every legendary transfer lies a series of alternative possibilities that could have changed the course of a club’s future forever.
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