“I am very proud and very happy,” says Riyad Mahrez after being crowned the BBC African Footballer of the Year 2016.
His fans from across the world voted for the Algeria and Leicester midfielder ahead of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Andre Ayew, Sadio Mane and Yaya Toure. Winger Mahrez, 25, told the media, “It means a lot, it’s something big for African players so I am very happy, I am very proud. “It’s always good to receive awards and for African players it’s a huge honour. To all the fans, thank you very much.” He also added, “Also I want to thank the Algeria fans and dedicate this to them as well and for my family.”