Algeria international Riyad Mahrez completed his move from the reigning Premier League champions Manchester City to Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli earlier today, July 28, 2023.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who had two years left on his contract with City, is the latest big-name player to join the Saudi Pro League club.
Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, and Ruben Neves have already joined Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia this summer, while Steven Gerrard has been appointed manager of Al-Ettifaq and Michael Emenalo has been appointed Saudi Pro League’s director of football.
Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson joined Gerrard’s Al-Ettifaq on Thursday.
Riyad Mahrez joined the bandwagon after Manchester City accepted Al-Ahli’s £30 million offer.
The Algerian winger who joined City for a transfer fee worth £60 million from Leicester City in 2018 scored 15 goals in 47 games in the 2022-2023 City’s Treble-winning season.
Riyad Mahrez helped Manchester City to win ten major titles including one UEFA Champions League in five seasons. He was an unused substitute in both the FA Cup and Champions League finals last season.
After completing his move to the Saudi Pro League 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. I achieved all that and so much more.
“I’ve made a lifetime of wonderful memories. Manchester City will forever be a huge and happy part of my life.”
While Manchester City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, said: “Riyad has been a major factor in our amazing successes over the past five years and his contribution will not be forgotten.
“He is a wonderful footballer to watch and leaves us with so many great memories.
“There are few wingers that possess his levels of skill and technique in world football, and he will be missed, but everyone will wish him all the best as he begins a new chapter in his career.”
