Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez has completed a €35 million transfer to the Saudi Pro League, signing a three-year contract with a conditional fourth year. The move comes after City agreed to a deal worth €35 million plus €5 million in add-ons with the Saudi club. Mahrez’s departure from City marks the end of a successful five-year stint during which he won five Premier League titles.
Expressing his gratitude, Mahrez said, To play for Manchester City has been an honor and privilege. 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.
City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain, acknowledged Mahrez’s significant contributions to the team’s success, stating, 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 and leaves us with so many great memories.
City had anticipated the possibility of Mahrez’s departure, and as a result, they have been making plans to replace him with a new winger. It is also reported that they are working to retain Bernardo Silva, who has also received interest from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.
Mahrez’s move to the Saudi Pro League is part of a wider trend, with the Saudi Arabia Ministry of Sport announcing in June that the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) would take control of four teams in the league: Al Ahli, Al Ittihad, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr.
While bidding farewell to Manchester City, Mahrez’s departure highlights the upcoming challenges for the club in finding a suitable replacement. On the other hand, it opens a new chapter in Mahrez’s career as he embarks on a new footballing journey in the Saudi Pro League.
