Riyad Mahrez leaves Al-Ahli after contract termination and international retirement | OneFootball

Riyad Mahrez has left Al-Ahli after the Saudi Pro League club terminated his contract. The club said in a statement that the 35-year-old departs with immediate effect, ending a three-year spell after arriving from Manchester City in summer 2023.

The development follows his decision to retire from international football after Algeria’s 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup round of 32. He confirmed it was his final appearance for the Desert Foxes, closing a 12-year career with 119 caps and the 2019 AFCON title.

Al-Ahli posted a farewell on X, praising unforgettable moments and his legacy with supporters. The parting has reportedly caused friction with sections of the fanbase who wanted him to see out the final year of his deal.

Mahrez was central to recent successes, winning two AFC Champions League Elite titles and the Saudi Super Cup. He recorded 37 goals and 50 assists in 122 appearances across all competitions.

He is now a free agent and attention turns to his next move. Early links point towards the Turkish Super Lig, with Fenerbahce mentioned, while a return to French football is also mooted after his formative spell at Le Havre and rise at Leicester City.

Mahrez becomes the latest high-profile departure in Jeddah, following Franck Kessie. Rumours suggest Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez could be the next to leave as part of a rebuild under the current management.

Source: Goal.com