Riyad Mahrez's future at Al-Shabab remains uncertain after club president Abdulaziz Al-Malik delivered a mysterious statement regarding the Algerian winger's potential move. Following Friday's 2-0 defeat to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Roshn League, Al-Malik addressed reporters with comments that have sparked fresh speculation across the Saudi transfer market.
When questioned about Mahrez's links to Al-Shabab, the club president told Asharq Al-Awsat: "Riyad Mahrez is a big gain for Saudi football and for Al-Shabab, and God willing we will see over the next 48 hours what will happen." The vague timeline and measured tone suggest negotiations may be ongoing, though no formal announcement has been made. Al-Malik's comments neither confirmed nor denied the club's pursuit of the 35-year-old attacker during the ongoing summer transfer window.
Multiple Suitors Circling Mahrez
The Algerian star has become a hot commodity on the Saudi market, with reports linking him to at least three different clubs. Beyond Al-Shabab's apparent interest, Al-Ittihad has expressed desire to secure his services, while a possible return to Al-Ahli—his previous club—remains a possibility. This level of interest underscores Mahrez's continued relevance despite being 35 years old, demonstrating his value as an experienced, proven performer in the Saudi Pro League.
Mahrez departed Al-Ahli at the end of the 2023–24 season after the club unilaterally terminated his contract one year early. During his three-year stint with Al-Ahli starting in summer 2023, the former Manchester City winger delivered significant silverware, winning two AFC Champions League Elite titles and one Saudi Super Cup. His trophy haul and Champions League pedigree make him an attractive prospect for any ambitious Saudi club chasing continental and domestic honours.
With Al-Malik's cryptic 48-hour window now central to transfer speculation, clarity on Mahrez's destination should emerge within days. Whether he returns to Al-Ahli, joins Al-Shabab, moves to Al-Ittihad, or explores another option entirely, his next move will shape the closing weeks of Saudi Arabia's summer transfer campaign.
