Riyad Mahrez has officially transferred from Manchester City to Saudi Pro League team Al-Ahli.
The 32-year-old Algerian, who had two years remaining on his Manchester City contract, has finally joined the SPL as their latest high-profile signing.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Mahrez’s departure from Manchester City with a £30 million switch to the Saudi club until June 2027.
This move marks the conclusion of his successful five-year tenure at the Etihad Stadium, during which he won numerous trophies.
In 2018, City paid £60m to acquire the talented Algerian winger from Leicester City.
Mahrez was highly instrumental in City’s victories, scoring 15 goals in 47 games during the Blues’ successful Treble-winning campaign last season.
During his five seasons with the club, Mahrez played a crucial role in helping City secure 10 major trophies.
However, it is worth noting that he was not allowed to contribute on the field during the last FA Cup and Champions League finals, as he remained an unused substitute.
In addition, Mahrez played a crucial role in City’s advancement to their first-ever Champions League final two years ago, although they ultimately lost 1-0 to Chelsea.
Meanwhile, they were opportunities for Mahrez to depart during the following two summers. However, the Algerian winger has finally decided to leave City after a successful Treble campaign.
Mahrez was the only player from Pep Guardiola’s squad who did not travel to Asia for their pre-season tour.
This was because he was in the process of finalizing a move to Saudi Arabia.
He has now joined the increasing number of players who have made a move to the Middle East during the summer transfer window.
Mahrez joined Al-Ahli, along with former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and ex-Liverpool attacker Roberto Firmino.
Other prominent footballers such as Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Ruben Neves have also joined Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia this summer.
Additionally, Steven Gerrard has been appointed as the manager of Al-Ettifaq, and Michael Emenalo has taken on the role of director of football for the SPL.
On Thursday, July 27 it was confirmed that Jordan Henderson, the former captain of Liverpool, has made a move to Saudi Arabia, joining Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq.
This transfer adds Henderson’s name to the list of high-profile players who have recently made a move to the country.
It’s believed that these transfers are part of the league’s ambitions to rank among the top five leagues globally.
After his transition to the Saudi Arabia club, Mahrez said: “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.”
Who is Riyad Mahrez?
Riyad Karim Mahrez is a highly skilled professional footballer who recently joined the Saudi Professional League club, Al-Ahli as a winger.
He also has the honor of captaining the Algeria national team.
Riyad Mahrez’s achievements at Manchester City
During his time at City, the winger achieved remarkable success, winning four Premier League titles, the Champions League, and five domestic cups.
He showcased his talent by scoring an impressive 78 goals in 236 appearances.
What’s next for Mahrez?
The new Saudi Pro League campaign will begin on August 11, and Mahrez is expected to make his debut as Al-Ahli face off against Al-Hazm in their first match.
