Mahrez joins Al-Ahli teammates in Austrian training

Riyad Mahrez, a professional footballer and winger who has joined the Saudi Professional League club Al-Ahli, took part in his first training session with the team in Austria on Friday.

Other members at the Saudi club enthusiastically welcomed Mahrez. They performed during his first training session. Mahrez also thanked other members of the club.

The 32-year-old footballer left Manchester City, an English professional football club based in Manchester. He was an important person in Leicester City’s Premier League title in 2016. He won the league four times. He began his career as a player for French club AAS Sarcelles.

The footballer joined the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Al Ahli from Manchester City on a deal worth 35 million euros ($38.53 million) plus five million in add-ons. The deal would run until 2027.

Before leaving the City, he said in a statement, “To play for Manchester City has been an honour and privilege. I came to the City to win trophies and enjoy my football and I achieved all that and so much more.”

He will team up with Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy who joined the Saudi club last month. Roberto Firmino, a Brazilian professional footballer, also joined the Saudi club in recent weeks.

After joining the Saudi club, Mahrez said, “To Al-Ahli fans, I am here for you guys. I am very excited and happy to be part of this great club.”

ALSO READ: Australian Pop Star Kylie Minogue To Perform Las Vegas Residency

According to reports, Matthias Jaissle, a German professional football manager and former player, has also joined the Saudi club as the manager. He coached Austrian Bundesliga champions Red Bull Salzburg.

Saudi clubs have become attractive destinations for Europe-based football players ever since Portuguese famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo moved to Saudi Al Nassr club in January. Recently, he said, “I opened the way to the Saudi league and now all the players are coming here.”