Riyad Mahrez is the latest star moving to Saudi Arabia. The footballing world has seen a mass exodus of European players leaving clubs to play in Saudi, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema being the two biggest names leading the news. Mahrez becomes another prominent player to move to Saudi after Manchester City and Al Ahli are finalizing his move.
The Jeddah-based club has agreed to a €35 million transfer fee plus €5m in add-ons with Manchester City. The Algerian had been left out of the Cityzens’ preseason tour to Japan as he already was finalizing his personal terms with the Saudi Club. The 32-year-old will have his medical with the club shortly.
Despite having a massively successful season with them clinching the treble, City is set to lose important players. They already have bid farewell to club captain Ilkay Gundogan, with Mahrez set to be the next veteran to leave. The club can also lose another prominent winger Bernardo Silva as he attracts interest from Barcelona and Saudi Arabia.
Mahrez is set to join ex-premier league stars Edouard Mendy and Roberto Firmino at Al Ahli. Mahrez is set to receive a $111,7000-a-week salary at Al Ahli. Fans were saddened by Mahrez quitting the premier league for the riches of Saudi Arabia.
Many fans were saddened as a cult hero was leaving the premier league. Fans also were quick to comment on players prioritizing earning money over playing at top leagues. Although some users were seeing the lighter side of things and were posting jokes online.
Many fans are worried about City’s depth for the next season, as they have lost important veterans. Some users are happy as they expect more competition to City in the next season
Mahrez had established himself as an iconic player of the Premiership. The 32-year-old burst to stardom as the winger who helped Leicester City achieve a fairytale title. He cemented his legacy by winning the treble with Manchester City. Mahrez leaves England with glittering achievements as he sets off for a Saudi Arabian adventure.
