Franco-Malian youngster Mahamadou Sangaré joins Al-Qadsiah on permanent deal

France international of Malian descent Mahamadou Sangaré has left Manchester City after just over a year, completing a permanent move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah.

The 19-year-old forward joins the Saudi club without making a first-team appearance for the Premier League champions.

Sangaré joined Manchester City from Paris Saint-Germain last year after choosing the Premier League side over the possibility of signing his first professional contract with his formative club.

Although he was unable to break into Pep Guardiola’s first-team setup during his time at the Etihad, Sangaré enjoyed an impressive campaign with the club’s academy.

The striker made 30 appearances for the youth side, scoring 15 goals and showcasing his goalscoring ability, including a memorable hat-trick in a UEFA Youth League clash against AS Monaco.

A return to France had previously been touted for Sangaré, with a loan move to a Ligue 1 club reportedly viewed as a possible next step in his development.

However, rather than heading back to France on loan, the teenager has opted for a permanent switch to Saudi Arabia.

Sangaré has signed a three-year contract with Al-Qadsiah, with the transfer fee remaining undisclosed.

The move brings an end to his brief spell at Manchester City, where he was unable to make the breakthrough into the senior team despite his promising record at academy level.

Sangaré will now look to continue his development in the Saudi Pro League and take the next step in his career after leaving England in search of regular first-team football.