Algerian footballer Riyad Mahrez, aged 32, has completed a move to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. The transfer marks his departure from Manchester City, where he enjoyed a successful stint.
The deal sees Mahrez signing a 3-year contract with Al-Ahli for a reported fee of £30 million. This move comes shortly after he was given permission to skip Manchester City's pre-season tour of Japan and South Korea.
During his time at Manchester City since joining in 2018 from Leicester City, Mahrez had a remarkable run, winning four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three Carabao Cups, and the Champions League. His arrival at the Etihad Stadium in 2018 came for a then club-record fee of £60 million after his pivotal role in Leicester's Premier League title-winning season in 2015/16.
Expressing his thoughts on the move to Al-Ahli, Mahrez stated:
“To play for Manchester City has been an honour and privilege. I came to City to win trophies and enjoy my football and I achieved all that and so much more.
“I have had five unforgettable years with this football club, working with unbelievable players, fantastic supporters, and the best manager in the world.
“I’ve made a lifetime of wonderful memories and the manner of our Premier League title wins and the battles we’ve had with Liverpool and, last year, Arsenal, underlined our collective desire and mentality to be the best.
“Manchester City will forever be a huge and happy part of my life.”
During his time with Manchester City, Mahrez appeared in a total of 284 Premier League games, scoring 82 goals and providing 61 assists. The club has also seen departures, with Ilkay Gundogan moving to Barcelona this summer, and speculations suggesting possible exits for Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva.
The 2023 summer transfer window has witnessed prominent players like Ruben Neves, Karim Benzema, and Roberto Firmino making moves to Saudi Arabian clubs, lured by lucrative offers.
