Manchester City’s former player, Riyad Mahrez, left the English club last summer to join Al Ahly in the Saudi league. His departure has left a void in the team and in the hearts of his former teammates and coaches, as evidenced by the heartfelt tributes from Pep Guardiola and Kyle Walker.
Pep Guardiola and Kyle Walker fondly remember Riyad Mahrez
Manchester City, England – Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola and defender Kyle Walker fondly recalled their former teammate Riyad Mahrez during an interview with the “Sada Al Malaeb” program.
Mahrez left Manchester City last summer to join Al Ahly in the Saudi league after six successful seasons in England. Guardiola said, “We miss Riyad a lot, and I greatly appreciate him. He was an important player for our team, but he wanted to take on a new challenge by joining the Saudi league.”
The Spanish tactician, who has just won his fourth consecutive Premier League title with Manchester City, also discussed Mahrez’s reasons for leaving: “Riyad made his decision for personal and family reasons. I totally respect his choice.”
On his part, Kyle Walker closely followed his former teammate’s performances: “I watched a lot of Saudi league matches this season because of Riyad. I am following his career with his new club and wish him all the possible success.”
Mahrez had a highly successful first season in Saudi Arabia, finishing as the league’s top assist provider with 14 assists. He also scored 11 goals, making him the second-highest scorer for Al Ahli this season.
The future of the Roshn League
Guardiola also discussed the development of the Roshn League, the Saudi football league: “Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in football to make its league a top competition. They have recruited high-level coaches and players. But to reap the rewards of this investment, it will take time and patience.”
With players like Mahrez, Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a major nation in global football seems more achievable than ever.
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