JEDDAH — Riyad Mahrez has bid an emotional farewell to Al Ahli after the expiration of his contract, thanking his teammates, coaches and supporters for an unforgettable chapter that included major silverware and lifelong friendships.
The Algeria captain shared a heartfelt message on social media, reflecting on his time with the AFC Champions League Elite winners and expressing gratitude for the memories created during his stay in Jeddah.
“To my teammates… thank you for everything we shared,” Mahrez wrote. “I was fortunate to experience unforgettable moments with you, win trophies, write a chapter in the history of this club and build bonds that will always be stronger than football.”
The former Manchester City winger said he had always put the club’s interests ahead of his own and took pride in the commitment he showed throughout his time at Al Ahli.
“I am proud that I fought alongside you until the very end,” he said. “I always tried to put the team, the coaching staff and the club first, sometimes even ahead of my own personal interests, because I truly believed in this project and in the people behind it.”
Mahrez added that he leaves Al Ahli with his head held high, confident he remained loyal to everyone associated with the club.
“I leave with my head held high, knowing I stayed loyal to my teammates, the coaching staff, the club and its fans until the very end,” he said.
In a message directed at his former teammates, Mahrez urged them to remain united and continue pursuing the ambitions they had shared together.
“I sincerely wish you all the best. Stay united and achieve every goal we set together,” he wrote.
The 35-year-old concluded by saying the relationships he formed at Al Ahli would endure beyond football.
“Wherever football takes us, I will never forget the brothers I found in this dressing room. Take care of yourselves, my brothers, and thank you for everything.”
Mahrez departs after a successful spell with Al Ahli, highlighted by the club’s AFC Champions League Elite triumph, leaving behind a lasting legacy both on and off the pitch.
Source: Saudi Gazette