An Al-Ahli Saudi Club official has disclosed new details regarding Riyad Mahrez’s departure during the current summer transfer window. Club spokesperson Majed Al-Fahmi offered an alternative explanation for Mahrez's exit, stating that the decision to release both Mahrez and Franck Kessié was a purely sporting one. Al-Fahmi clarified that this sporting decision was made by former head coach Matthias Jaissle. He explicitly ruled out any financial considerations as a factor behind the move, contradicting previous suggestions. The official's statements provided behind-the-scenes details surrounding the high-profile exit.
Contradicting Previous Reports
Previous media reports had suggested Al-Ahli's decision to part ways with Riyad Mahrez stemmed from his advancing age, as he is now 35. Other reports cited the club's desire to reduce its wage bill or to launch a new sporting project without him as reasons for his departure. However, Al-Fahmi's recent clarification directly challenges these earlier narratives, emphasizing that the club's strategy was driven by on-field considerations rather than financial or age-related factors.
Al Ahli activated a clause in Mahrez's contract, allowing the club to terminate it unilaterally after three years. This termination occurred despite Mahrez's agreement having one year remaining, and was reportedly in exchange for a payment of up to $15 million. Al-Fahmi further stressed that Portuguese sporting director Rui Pedro Braz played no role in this decision regarding the Algerian forward, reinforcing the narrative that the choice was solely that of the former head coach. The club spokesperson’s detailed explanation aimed to provide clarity amidst speculation regarding the reasons for Mahrez's exit from the Jeddah-based club.
Coach's Role and Departure
Former head coach Matthias Jaissle departed Al-Ahli after his tenure in Jeddah. Jaissle was instrumental in guiding Al-Ahli to consecutive Asian titles during his time with the club. Under his leadership, Al-Ahli maintained an unbeaten record throughout the entire 2024-25 Champions League competition. The team secured their latest title by defeating Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale with a decisive 2-0 victory in the final match. This triumph also saw Riyad Mahrez add another AFC Champions League Elite crown to his distinguished collection, noting the successful period under Jaissle that preceded the contentious decision regarding Mahrez's future.
Mahrez's Al-Ahli Record
Riyad Mahrez concluded his three-year tenure with Al-Ahli having made 122 appearances for the club. During his time in Saudi Arabia, the Algerian forward scored an impressive 37 goals and provided 46 assists, showcasing his significant contribution to the team's attacking prowess. Mahrez contributed to Al-Ahli securing two Asian titles and the Saudi Super Cup, marking a successful period for both the player and the club. In the 2024-25 continental campaign, he registered nine goals and eight assists across 13 Champions League appearances, showing his continued impact on the pitch right up until his departure.
Future Links and Career Notes
Following his departure, Riyad Mahrez has been linked with several prominent clubs across different leagues. These include Italian clubs Roma and Como, UAE side Al Jazira in Abu Dhabi, and Saudi Arabian club Neom SC, indicating strong interest in the veteran forward. Throughout his illustrious career, Mahrez has achieved significant success, including winning Premier League titles with both Leicester City and Manchester City. He also secured a UEFA Champions League triumph with Manchester City and led Algeria to victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, solidifying his status as one of the most decorated players of his generation.