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Riyad Mahrez has officially ended his association with Al-Ahli after the Saudi Pro League club announced the termination of his contract on Saturday. The decision comes soon after the veteran winger confirmed his retirement from international football following Algeria’s exit from the World Cup.

Al-Ahli confirm Mahrez departure

The Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli confirmed that Mahrez has departed with immediate effect, marking the conclusion of his three-year stint in Jeddah. The club released an official statement to bid farewell to the 35-year-old, who joined them from Manchester City in the summer of 2023.

In an emotional statement, the club expressed: “Three unforgettable years. Countless magical moments. A legacy that will forever live in the hearts of every Al Ahli fan.”

Despite the warm farewell from the management, reports suggest that some sections of the fanbase were disappointed, hoping that the creative winger would remain for the final year of his contract.

International retirement sets the stage

Mahrez’s departure from the club closely follows his announcement regarding retirement from international football. Speaking after Algeria’s 2-0 loss to Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup round of 32, the seasoned forward confirmed that he was ending his time with the national team. His retirement brings an emotional close to a 12-year international career in which he earned 119 caps and captained the Desert Foxes to victory in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Confirming the decision, Mahrez told reporters: “It’s my last appearance even with the national team. It was my last game.”

The timing of his departure from Al-Ahli indicates a fresh chapter for the winger, who is now a free agent as speculation mounts regarding his next move in Europe and elsewhere.

A trophy-laden spell in Jeddah

During his time in Jeddah, Mahrez played a pivotal role in Al-Ahli’s success, contributing significantly to their trophy collection. He leaves after winning two AFC Champions League Elite titles and a Saudi Super Cup, establishing himself as one of the most productive players in Saudi football. Over 122 appearances across all competitions, Mahrez recorded 37 goals and 50 assists—an impressive tally that highlights his consistent impact.

The Algerian star becomes the latest big name to exit the club this summer as Al-Ahli’s management undertakes a major squad overhaul. He follows former AC Milan and Barcelona midfielder Franck Kessie out of the club, and reports suggest that Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez could be next as part of the team’s restructuring efforts.

What next for the former City star?

As Al-Ahli prepares to search for a high-profile replacement, Mahrez’s next move remains a hot topic among football circles. Reports have linked him with a potential transfer to the Turkish Super Lig, with Fenerbahce emerging as a possible destination. There is also speculation about a return to French football, where his career began with Le Havre before his breakthrough at Leicester City.