Riyad Mahrez recently shed light on his exit from Manchester City, revealing the pivotal roles played by Pep Guardiola and Txiki Begiristain in persuading him to extend his stay. Departing for a substantial £30 million transfer to Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, Mahrez concluded a successful five-year stint at City, crowned by a monumental Champions League victory. Despite this triumph, Mahrez openly acknowledged unmet objectives, particularly his absence in crucial starting lineups, including pivotal games like the Champions League final.
While having the option to honor his remaining two years with City, Mahrez saw a rare opportunity that might not come again. His decision to leave stemmed from various factors, including the desire to rectify missed opportunities in important matches and provide long-term security for his family through a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia. The move to Al Ahli represented a fresh challenge and a novel project for the accomplished winger.
Throughout his contemplation, Mahrez expressed gratitude for Guardiola and Begiristain’s earnest efforts, passionately advocating for him to stay. Despite their persuasive arguments and a thorough evaluation of pros and cons, Mahrez chose to embark on a new chapter in his career. He emphasized the decision wasn’t taken lightly but is one he currently embraces with satisfaction.
This departure signifies a significant transition for Mahrez. Despite acknowledging accolades and triumphs at City, he felt a profound sense of unfulfilled potential. Joining Al Ahli represents his pursuit of personal fulfillment, new challenges, and creating a secure environment for his family—a fresh chapter in his illustrious career.
