Riyad Mahrez, the talented winger from Manchester City, appears to be on the verge of making a move to Saudi Arabia, becoming the latest high-profile player to join the nation’s football scene. The speculation surrounding Mahrez’s departure gained traction after he was not included in the 25-man squad for Manchester City’s preseason tour of Japan and South Korea, fueling rumors of an imminent transfer to Al-Ahli. The reported deal is said to be valued at up to £30 million ($38.7 million).
The decision to exclude Mahrez from the preseason tour was made with the understanding that he would be allowed to skip the trip if an acceptable offer meeting City’s valuation of the Algerian winger was received. Mahrez has been an integral part of the Manchester City squad since his arrival from Leicester City in 2018, contributing significantly to the club’s success.
While an official confirmation from Manchester City regarding the agreement with Al-Ahli is yet to be released, the Jeddah-based team has been active in the transfer market this offseason, securing the signings of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy from Chelsea and striker Roberto Firmino, who recently concluded his contract with Liverpool. Al-Ahli’s ambitious recruitment drive aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader objective of enhancing the reputation and appeal of its Pro League by attracting top footballing talent.
The allure of Saudi Arabia’s Pro League has proven irresistible to several renowned football stars this summer. The oil-rich nation has successfully enticed players from various top leagues around the world, marking a notable shift in the global football landscape. These high-profile signings aim to elevate the standard of play and generate greater interest in the Saudi Arabian football scene.
While Riyad Mahrez’s potential move to Al-Ahli is yet to be finalized, it is evident that Saudi Arabia’s Pro League is emerging as an attractive destination for talented players seeking new challenges and lucrative opportunities. The increased investment in football infrastructure and the country’s determination to promote the sport on a global scale have played a significant role in attracting these renowned names.
As the transfer window progresses, football enthusiasts will closely follow the developments surrounding Riyad Mahrez’s anticipated move to Al-Ahli. If the deal materializes, Mahrez will join a growing list of international stars who have chosen to continue their careers in the vibrant football landscape of Saudi Arabia. This ongoing influx of top talent is sure to captivate football fans worldwide and further enhance the competitiveness and appeal of the Saudi Pro League.
