“I WAS FORCED TO LEAVE Manchester City because I disagreed with a decision the made and he said I have to leave the Club” Riyad Mahrez Expose Who Forced Him Out of Manchester
Riyad Mahrez recently shared insights into his departure from Manchester City, providing a comprehensive view of the significant role played by Pep Guardiola and Txiki Begiristain in attempting to persuade him to extend his stay.
His departure, marked by a substantial £30 million transfer to Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, marked the conclusion of a successful five-year period at City that culminated in a monumental Champions League victory. Despite this success, Mahrez openly acknowledged a lingering sense of unmet objectives, especially stemming from his absence in key starting lineups, notably missing out on pivotal games like the Champions League final.
Reflecting on his decision-making process, Mahrez detailed the complexity surrounding his departure.
While he had the option to honor the remaining two years of his Manchester City contract, he perceived a rare and unique opportunity that might not present itself again. His decision to leave was a combination of various factors, including the desire to rectify what he perceived as missed opportunities in important matches and the prospect of providing long-term security for his family through a lucrative contract in a Muslim-majority nation like Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the move to Al Ahli represented a fresh challenge and a completely novel project for the accomplished winger.
Throughout this period of contemplation, Mahrez expressed gratitude for the earnest efforts of both Guardiola and Begiristain. Both influential figures within Manchester City’s hierarchy passionately advocated for Mahrez to prolong his successful stint at Etihad. Despite their persuasive arguments and a thorough evaluation of the advantages and disadvantages, Mahrez ultimately opted to embark on this new chapter in his professional career. He emphasized that this decision wasn’t taken lightly but was one he currently embraces with a sense of satisfaction and contentment.
This departure marks a significant transition for Mahrez. Despite acknowledging the accolades and triumphs achieved during his tenure at City, he felt a profound sense of unfulfilled potential in the latter stages. However, his choice to join Al Ahli signifies his pursuit of personal fulfillment, new challenges, and the creation of a secure environment for his family, setting the stage for a fresh chapter in his illustrious career.