Riyad Mahrez could extend Saudi stay as Al-Qadsiah monitor situation

Al-Qadsiah are considering a move for Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez following his departure from Al-Ahli, with the Saudi Pro League club assessing the experienced forward as a potential addition during the summer transfer window.

Mahrez became a free agent after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract with Al-Ahli, bringing an end to a successful spell at the club.

The 35-year-old now faces a decision over the next stage of his career, and remaining in Saudi Arabia has emerged as a realistic possibility.

According to reports from Saudi Arabia, Al-Qadsiah have made enquiries about Mahrez’s availability as they look to strengthen their options on the right flank.

The club is evaluating his situation, although the former Algeria captain is one of several players under consideration and no formal offer has been submitted at this stage.

The interest comes after Mahrez enjoyed three productive seasons with Al-Ahli, a period marked by notable success that included two consecutive AFC Champions League titles. His performances during that time reinforced his reputation as one of the league’s most influential attacking players.

While speculation continues over his future, Mahrez is understood to favour extending his stay in the Gulf rather than making a return to European football. That preference could make Al-Qadsiah an attractive destination if discussions progress beyond the initial stage.

Al-Qadsiah have continued to establish themselves as one of the Saudi Pro League’s competitive sides since returning to the top flight.

The club finished fourth during the 2024-25 campaign after collecting 68 points from 34 matches before repeating that league position in 2025-26 with an improved tally of 77 points from the same number of games.

Those consistent finishes underline the club’s ambition to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level in Saudi football, with experienced players such as Mahrez fitting the profile being assessed this summer.

The winger is also entering a new phase of his career after bringing his international journey with Algeria to a close.

The player, who earned 119 caps for his country, announced his retirement from international football following Algeria’s 2-0 defeat to Switzerland in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

For now, Mahrez remains without a club, while Al-Qadsiah continue to monitor his situation. Although no official bid has been made, the possibility of the Algerian continuing his career in the Saudi Pro League remains firmly on the table as the transfer window progresses.