Premier League: Riyad Mahrez Leaves Manchester City For Saudi Arabian Club Al-Ahli

The Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez left the Premier League champions Manchester City to join Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli on Friday.

Manchester City released an official statement to announce the departure of their winger. "Riyad Mahrez has left Manchester City to join Al-Ahli Saudi Football Club," read the official statement from the club.

The Algerian forward spent five years with the treble winners after signing from Leicester City in 2018. Mahrez’s spell at the Etihad saw him feature in 236 appearances and bag 78 goals along with 59 assists. Throughout his stay, Mahrez was an integral member of Pep Guardiola’s squad.

He ended his stay in Manchester by winning 11 major trophies, along with this he also walks away as a distinguished Treble winner in his final campaign with the Blues. Mahrez struck double digits in all of his five seasons. He was also voted Etihad Player of the Month on seven occasions.

Dear Cityzens,

Today marks the end of an unforgettable chapter in my life, a five-year journey filled with countless memories. Before leaving, I wanted to thank the board, the manager and the staff for giving me the chance to prove myself at the highest level.

To my teammates,… pic.twitter.com/81mVXGoKrH — Riyad Mahrez (@Mahrez22) July 28, 2023

The Algerian reflected on his five-year stay with the club and said to the club's official website, "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," he added.

Director of Football Txiki Begiristain paid tribute to the Algeria star for the efforts he put in during his five-year stay with the club.

"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," Tixiki said.

"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," Tixiki added.