From Mahrez to Kessie: Are Al Ahli’s glory years beginning to fade?

Saudi side Al Ahli are facing growing uncertainty ahead of the new campaign following the departures of African stars Riyad Mahrez and Franck Kessie, two players widely credited with transforming the club in recent years.

The Jeddah-based side are preparing to compete on four fronts next season — the Saudi Pro League, King’s Cup, Saudi Super Cup and AFC Champions League Elite — but concern is mounting among supporters over the direction of the squad.

African stars depart after successful era

Al Ahli confirmed on Wednesday that Ivory Coast midfielder Franck Kessie had left the club on a free transfer after the expiry of his contract.

The announcement came amid reports that Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez had also been informed that his contract would be terminated through a clause allowing the club to end the agreement before 30 June in exchange for a reported payment of 15 million dollars.

The departures mark the end of a successful period that began in the summer of 2023, when Mahrez arrived from Manchester City and Kessie joined from Barcelona.

Mahrez and Kessie leave lasting impact

Since joining Al Ahli, the pair established themselves as key figures both on and off the pitch.

Mahrez featured in 122 matches, scoring 37 goals and providing 50 assists, while Kessie made 119 appearances and contributed 26 goals alongside 15 assists.

Their influence helped Al Ahli secure three major trophies, including the AFC Champions League Elite title, which the club won for the second time in its history after previously lifting it in 2015.

The duo also played central roles in decisive moments during continental competition.

Mahrez scored a dramatic late winner against Al-Duhail in the Round of 16, while Kessie produced crucial contributions against Johor Darul Ta’zim and Machida Zelvia during the knockout rounds.

Kessie also found the net in the previous final against Kawasaki Frontale, with Mahrez ending that campaign as the competition’s leading assist provider.

Leadership void raises concern

Beyond statistics, many supporters believe Al Ahli are losing two of the team’s biggest leaders.

Both players brought experience, composure and influence during difficult moments, qualities fans fear may now be missing from the squad.

Kessie’s departure leaves the midfield in the hands of younger and less experienced options including Eid Al-Mawlid, Ziyad Al-Jahani, Enzo Millot and Valentin Atangana.

Mahrez’s exit also leaves uncertainty in attack, with Abu Shamat expected to take on a bigger role despite concerns over injuries and limited experience at the highest level.

The club have also signed winger Meshaal Al-Mutairi from Abha, but questions remain over whether he can fill the void left by one of Africa’s most accomplished players.

Growing fears over title ambitions

The current situation has increased anxiety among supporters who had hoped Al Ahli could finally end their 10-year wait for the Saudi league title.

Instead, many fans now fear the momentum built over the last two seasons could fade, with concerns growing that the departures of Mahrez and Kessie may signal the end of a successful era rather than the start of a stronger one.