Riyad Mahrez weighs Saudi, UAE and European moves after Al-Ahli exit

Riyad Mahrez is considering three possible destinations after becoming a free agent following the end of his time at Al-Ahli, with Saudi Pro League side Neom, Abu Dhabi club Al-Jazira and a return to Italy all emerging as options for the 35-year-old.

Mahrez has recently retired from international football with Algeria but has not yet decided to end his club career. The former Manchester City winger is now assessing the next step after three seasons in Saudi Arabia.

One possibility would be to remain in the Saudi Pro League, a competition he knows well after his spell with Al-Ahli.

Neom are reported to be interested in signing Mahrez and regard him as a high-profile addition capable of strengthening their project. A move would allow the Algerian to stay in a league where he has established himself while retaining an important role within a team.

He would also link up with Algeria team-mate Said Benrahma at Neom.

Mahrez’s time at Al-Ahli was highly successful. Since joining the club in 2023, he made 122 appearances in all competitions, scoring 37 goals and providing 50 assists.

He also helped Al-Ahli win two successive Asian Champions League titles in 2025 and 2026, as well as the Saudi Super Cup.

Possible move to the United Arab Emirates

A second option would be a move across the Gulf to the United Arab Emirates, where Al-Jazira are understood to be among the clubs showing the strongest interest in his situation.

A transfer to Abu Dhabi would offer Mahrez a fresh challenge while allowing him to remain in a familiar regional environment. He has spent the past three years playing in the Gulf after leaving Manchester City for Al-Ahli.

The move could also give Mahrez the status of an undisputed star, with Al-Jazira potentially building their project around his experience and reputation.

The most attractive option from a sporting perspective may be a return to Europe.

A number of Italian clubs have reportedly shown interest in recent months, including AS Roma. Como had also been mentioned as a possible destination, although the club has recently denied any interest in signing Mahrez.

A move to Serie A would give him the chance to return to one of Europe’s leading domestic leagues and take on what could be the final major challenge of his career after three seasons in Saudi Arabia.

Mahrez, the 2016 African Footballer of the Year, therefore still has several options available despite leaving Al-Ahli. At 35, however, his next decision could represent the last major contract of his playing career.