Islam Slimani

Algerian striker and all-time top scorer for his national team.

Islam Slimani (born 18 June 1988) is an Algerian professional footballer who plays as a striker. He is the all-time top goalscorer for the Algeria national team.

Quick Facts

Born: 18 June 1988
Birthplace: Algiers, Algeria
Height: 1.88 m / 6 ft 2 in
Position: Striker

Lore & Background

Slimani began his career in his homeland with JSM Chéraga and CR Belouizdad. In 2013, he moved to Europe, signing for Sporting CP. He played and scored regularly during his three seasons in Portugal, helping his team win the Taça de Portugal in 2015. In 2016, Slimani was transferred to Leicester City for a club record £28 million fee. After a season and a half in the Leicester squad, he was sent on successive loans to Newcastle United, Fenerbahçe, and Monaco. In 2021, Slimani joined Lyon. One year later, he briefly returned to Sporting CP, leaving after six months. Slimani then went on to join Brest, Anderlecht, Coritiba, and Mechelen in short stints. He returned to Algeria with CR Belouizdad in 2024 and went on loan to Westerlo in 2025.

Reader's Guide

An Algerian international, Slimani made his international debut in 2012 and played at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2021 and 2023, and was also a part of the Algeria side that won the 2019 tournament. He was additionally part of Algeria's squad at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he finished as the team's joint top scorer with two goals.