Riyad Mahrez celebrated eight years at Manchester City on 5 Aug 2018, the anniversary of his £60 million transfer that sparked a period of domestic dominance and a Champions League win.
How did Mahrez’s City debut unfold?
Mahrez arrived from Leicester, where he’d helped secure a surprise Premier League title in 2015‑16. In his first season he started 14 league games but still managed 15 goal involvements, proving his worth despite limited minutes. Guardiola praised his fit with the club’s attacking philosophy, noting the Algerian’s “silky, slaloming dribbling style.”
What trophies did Mahrez collect at City?
Between 2018 and 2023 City captured a domestic treble in Mahrez’s debut year – the Premier League, Carabao Cup and FA Cup. Over the next four seasons the club added three more league crowns, two additional Carabao Cups, another FA Cup and the long‑awaited Champions League. Mahrez contributed 78 goals and 59 assists across 236 appearances, never dropping below 27 league games in any of his five full seasons.
Why does Mahrez remain a fan favourite?
Fans gravitated to his feathery first touch and cultured left foot, traits that shone even when Guardiola rotated his attacking roster. He consistently delivered at least 15 league goal involvements each season after his debut, a metric that kept him in the conversation for starting roles despite fierce competition.
What happened after Mahrez left City?
In 2023 Mahrez departed for Saudi side Al‑Ahli, ending a chapter that saw him retire from international duty after Algeria’s round‑of‑32 exit at the 2026 World Cup. Guardiola later recalled Mahrez as “one of the guys in my career who I saw who enjoyed the most,” highlighting the special bond forged during their shared successes.
How does Mahrez’s legacy shape his future?
Mahrez’s eight‑year spell left a legacy of silverware and a reputation for technical brilliance. At Al‑Ahli he continues to feature prominently, bringing Premier League experience to the Saudi league. His record of 78 goals and 59 assists stands as a benchmark for future City wingers, while his influence on Algerian football endures beyond his retirement.