The exodus of big names to Saudi football continues

Riyad Mahrez, the Algerian player who spent five successful years under Pep Guardiola’s guidance at Manchester City, is the latest addition to the Saudi league. Al-Ahli is set to pay a hefty fee of 25 million euros to City for Mahrez’s services, and the player himself will earn a staggering 35 million per season. This lucrative deal is signed until 2027.

In a heartfelt message to the fans, Mahrez expressed his gratitude and stated that it marks the end of an unforgettable chapter in his life. Together, they achieved numerous records, never losing hope even in challenging times.

The winger’s last campaign saw him score 15 goals in 47 games, notably including a remarkable hat-trick in the FA Cup semi-final against Sheffield United at Wembley. This achievement made him the first Manchester City player to score a hat-trick at this iconic stadium.

The Al-Ahli Saudi Club is eagerly awaiting Mahrez’s arrival as he joins other renowned Premier League stars who have already made their move to the Saudi league.

With these high-profile signings, the expectations for the upcoming season in Saudi football are sky-high. Clubs in the country have armed themselves with superstars, indicating their determination to compete at the highest level. Riyad Mahrez’s addition to Al-Ahli Saudi Club further cements the league’s status as an attractive destination for top talent.

As the exodus of big names to Saudi football continues, the landscape of the league is undergoing a transformation. The allure of lucrative contracts and the opportunity to make a significant impact on the footballing scene in the region are drawing top-tier players to Saudi Arabia.