Riyad Mahrez believes the Saudi Arabian football league is not yet on par with Europe’s elite competitions and says the project remains a work in progress—despite high-profile endorsements from players like Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking to L’Équipe, the Al-Ahli winger, who joined the Saudi Pro League in 2023 after spells at Manchester City and Leicester City, said: “The five big European leagues are ahead, and after that we can start to compete with the other leagues. We are not too far away, I think. After that, the goal is not to be the best championship in the world right now. We are on a long-term vision. Those like me who have arrived, we are here at the beginning of this adventure, we are a bit like precursors.”
Mahrez, 34, acknowledged the growth he has witnessed during his time in Saudi Arabia, highlighting improvements across the board.
“We are helping them to make this league stronger. And frankly, over my two seasons, I have felt a progression in the teams, the coaches, the tactics and the organization. They are trying to get there, and I think they will get there,” he added.
His remarks contrast starkly with those of Cristiano Ronaldo, who has repeatedly praised the Saudi Pro League as among the most competitive in the world.
On a separate issue, the Algerian international weighed in on the sensitive topic of national team allegiance, echoing the views of compatriot Islam Slimani. Mahrez took a firm stance on players who delay committing to African national teams in the hope of being selected by European sides.
“I’m a bit like Islam. Everyone does what they want. If you feel Algerian, you come and play for your country. You come and defend the flag. If you don’t feel Algerian, it’s better to say so from the start,” Mahrez said.
“Playing for time isn’t necessarily good. For the players, the fans who are waiting… Before, it was a bit harder, but now, we’ve shown that we can play for an African national team while also joining big clubs. It’s no longer necessary to wait to sign for a big club to join an African national team.”
Mahrez’s candid reflections highlight both his pride in representing Algeria and his belief in the steady evolution of football in Saudi Arabia—tempered with realism and a long-term outlook.
