Algerian star Riyad Mahrez has rejected a request from his coach Matthias Jaissle to take a rest before Al Ahli’s crucial Saudi Pro League clash against Al Taawoun on Wednesday.
According to Saudi daily Al-Youm, Jaissle suggested giving Mahrez time off and allowing him to rejoin full training only after the match, but the winger firmly refused.
Mahrez insisted on training with his teammates and being available in the starting line-up, given the importance of the game in the race for the top spots. Al Ahli host Al Taawoun in Jeddah in round 15 of the Roshn Saudi League, with the “Raqi” sitting fourth on 28 points, three behind third-placed Al Taawoun on 31.
The former Manchester City captain has just returned to club duty after Algeria’s exit from the Africa Cup of Nations, where they were knocked out by Nigeria in the quarter-finals.
His determination to feature immediately underlines both his competitive spirit and Al Ahli’s need for his creativity and experience in a key home fixture.
