Islam Slimani became the Algeria national team's all-time leading goalscorer, maintaining a professional trajectory that began in his homeland before expanding across major European leagues. Born on 18 June 1988 in Algiers, the striker established himself as a prominent international figure, eventually earning over 100 caps while competing in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
Early Career in Algeria
Slimani began his professional football journey with JSM Chéraga. In May 2009, he moved to CR Belouizdad for a transfer fee of 800,000 Algerian dinars, securing a two-year contract. He debuted for the club against MC Oran that August. By May 2011, he demonstrated his scoring prowess by netting four goals in a 7–1 league victory over JS Kabylie. Following the expiration of his initial contract, he signed a two-year extension with CR Belouizdad.
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In 2013, Slimani signed with Sporting CP in Portugal. He initially served as an impact substitute before earning a starting role during the 2013–14 season. His success grew in the 2014–15 campaign, where he helped secure the Taça de Portugal. By the 2015–16 season, he became a central figure, scoring 27 league goals. He ended his tenure at the club in 2016, having scored a final goal in a 2–1 victory against Porto before departing.
Premier League and Journeyman Years
On 31 August 2016, Slimani transferred to Leicester City for a then-record £28 million fee. He marked his UEFA Champions League debut against Club Brugge and scored two goals in his first Premier League appearance against Burnley. His time in England was followed by a series of loans to Newcastle United, Fenerbahçe, and Monaco. Subsequent stints at clubs including Lyon, Brest, Anderlecht, Coritiba, and Mechelen preceded his 2024 return to CR Belouizdad and a 2025 loan to Westerlo.
International Contributions
Since his 2012 international debut, Slimani has been a consistent presence for Algeria. He competed in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2021, and 2023, and contributed to the squad that won the 2019 tournament. During the 2014 FIFA World Cup, he finished as the team's joint top scorer with two goals. As of December 2025, he holds the national record with 46 goals in over 100 international appearances.
Fast facts
- Born: 18 June 1988, Algiers
- Citizenship: Algeria
- International debut: 2012
- Leicester City transfer fee: £28 million
- Total international goals: 46
- Primary position: Striker
Questions readers ask
What is Islam Slimani's standing in Algerian football history?
As of December 2025, he is the all-time top goalscorer for the Algeria national team with 46 goals.
Which clubs has Slimani represented in Europe?
His European clubs include Sporting CP, Leicester City, Newcastle United, Fenerbahçe, Monaco, Lyon, Brest, Anderlecht, Mechelen, and Westerlo.
