Riyad Mahrez resists Saudi switch as European options emerge

Riyad Mahrez is currently opposed to returning to the Roshn Saudi League, despite interest from Saudi clubs and attempts to persuade him to remain in the country following his departure from Al Ahli.

The Algeria international has recently been linked with moves to Al Shabab and Al Ettifaq. However, Saudi newspaper Al Yaum reports that there are no direct negotiations between Al Shabab and Mahrez at present, despite speculation connecting the two parties in recent weeks.

Mahrez’s future remains unresolved with the summer transfer window still open. Several Saudi clubs are understood to be interested in signing the former Al Ahli player, but he has yet to show an appetite for continuing his career in the Saudi top flight.

Efforts have reportedly been made to convince the 34-year-old to stay in Saudi Arabia and begin a new chapter with another club. Mahrez, however, remains firm in his current position and does not favour a return to the Roshn Saudi League at this stage.

According to the same report, Mahrez is not currently welcoming the prospect of joining either Al Shabab or Al Ettifaq. His reluctance to consider those options is also linked to interest from Spanish clubs during the current transfer window.

That interest could encourage the Algeria captain to prioritise a return to European football rather than continue playing in Saudi Arabia. The report does not identify the Spanish clubs involved, but their reported approach has added another possible direction to an already uncertain transfer situation.

Mahrez spent two seasons with Al Ahli after moving to Saudi Arabia and achieved a number of successes during his time with the club. His departure this summer followed an agreement with Al Ahli to terminate his contract by mutual consent.

The decision brought an end to his spell with “The Royal”, while also prompting widespread speculation over his next destination. Although several Saudi clubs have been associated with a move, no final decision has yet been reached.

For now, the indications are that Mahrez’s preference is to pursue a new opportunity outside Saudi Arabia. His stance, combined with reported interest from Spain, has made a return to European football appear more likely than an immediate move to Al Shabab or Al Ettifaq.

Mahrez previously established himself as one of Europe’s leading attacking players during his time with Manchester City, before joining Al Ahli. His next move remains open, but the latest reports suggest that staying in the Roshn Saudi League is not currently his preferred option.