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RIYADH. — Manchester City’s Algerian forward Riyad Mahrez has completed a move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli, Saudi state-run Al Ekhbariya TV said early yesterday.
Al Ekhbariya said on Twitter that Mahrez has become Al-Ahli’s latest signing but did not provide further details. The Jeddah-based club have yet to make a formal announcement.
Mahrez scored 78 goals and made 59 assists in 236 appearances in all competitions with City, and won 11 trophies at the club, including five league titles following his move from Leicester City in 2018.
The 32-year-old saw his role for Pep Guardiola’s side reduced last season, scoring 15 goals in 47 games, but missing out on action in the FA Cup and Champions League finals as City won a historic treble.
Last year he, renewed his contract until 2025.
Mahrez becomes the latest big-name signing in the Saudi Pro League, which has become an attractive destination for Europe-based players since Cristiano Ronaldo moved to Al Nassr last January.
Al-Ahli, who sealed promotion to the Pro League after spending one season in the second division last term, have also signed Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino on a free transfer and Chelsea’s Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy on a three-year deal.
Last month, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) announced a Sports Clubs Investment and Privatisation Project involving the league champions Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr and Al-Hilal. — Reuters.
Online Reporter