Riyad Mahrez has joined Al Ahli from Manchester City, becoming the latest football talent to join the Saudi Pro League, it was revealed on Friday.
According to ESPN, the Premier League champions agreed to a £30 million ($38.7 million) deal with Al Ahli for Mahrez, who was eager to play in Saudi Arabia. The agreement involves a guaranteed payment of £26 million plus an additional £4 million in add-ons.
With City, Mahrez won four Premier League titles, including a historic treble last season. Since arriving from Leicester City in 2018, he has made 236 appearances.
“It’s been an honor and privilege to play for Manchester City,” Mahrez said on the club’s website. “I came to City to win trophies and have fun playing football, and I have done both and so much more.”
“I have spent five unforgettable years with this football club, working with incredible players, fantastic fans, and the best manager in the world.”
“I’ve made a lifetime of wonderful memories, and the manner in which we won the Premier League title and battled Liverpool and, last year, Arsenal highlighted our collective desire and mentality to be the best.”
“Manchester City will forever be a huge and happy part of my life.”
After Cristiano Ronaldo, Jordan Henderson, Roberto Firmino, N’Golo Kante, and Ruben Neves, the Algeria international is the latest high-profile player to depart England for Saudi Arabia.
