Riyad Mahrez excluded from Al Ahli’s squad for crucial Saudi Pro League clash against Al Riyadh

Al-Ahli Jeddah coach Matthias Jäissle made a surprising call by excluding Algerian star Riyad Mahrez from the squad ahead of Thursday’s Saudi Pro League clash against Al-Riyadh SC at Prince Faisal bin Fahd Sports City Stadium.

According to Saudi journalist Waleed Saeed, Mahrez was left out despite being fully fit.

The German manager reportedly opted to rest the winger to protect him from potential injury, given the congested schedule Al-Ahli faces in the coming weeks.

After the match against Al-Riyadh, the team will compete in five critical fixtures, including two legs against Al-Duhail in the AFC Champions League round of 16, domestic league matches against Al-Ittihad and Al-Qadisiyah, and a King’s Cup semi-final against Al-Hilal.

Mahrez was not the only high-profile omission, as French midfielder Enzo Millot was also excluded from the travelling squad.

Meanwhile, Al-Raed FC welcomed back Turkish defender Merih Demiral, who had been sidelined since January 20 due to injury.

Demiral’s return strengthens the squad considerably; he has featured in 24 matches this season, contributing two goals and one assist, cementing his role as a key figure in the team.

Al-Ahli will now rely on its remaining squad to navigate a challenging period, while carefully managing the fitness of key players like Mahrez ahead of crucial upcoming fixtures.