Algerian superstar and Al-Ahli Saudi legend Riyad Mahrez has revealed the untold story behind his missed opportunities to join Spain’s football giants, Barcelona and Real Madrid. Despite his historic 2016 Premier League triumph with Leicester City, the winger’s path to La Liga was obstructed by staggering financial demands from the English club.
The Dream of Playing with Messi
In a recent interview, Mahrez didn’t hide his childhood aspirations. When asked about his dream destination, he was clear:
“Without a doubt, my dream was to play under Pep Guardiola and alongside Lionel Messi at Barcelona.”
Why the Moves Collapsed
Before eventually joining Manchester City in 2018 for approximately €60 million, Mahrez was the subject of interest from several European powerhouses. However, his lack of a release clause proved to be a major obstacle.
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The Leicester Barrier: “I spoke with several clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Manchester United, but Leicester demanded massive sums to let me go,” Mahrez explained.
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The Kante Comparison: Mahrez jokingly reflected on his former teammate’s foresight: “N’Golo Kante was smarter than me. He included a €30 million release clause, which allowed him to join Chelsea easily, while I was forced to stay for two more years.”
Legacy at Man City and Al-Ahli
The move to Manchester City finally materialized when Pep Guardiola personally reached out. “Pep told me he wanted me in his team, and I immediately said, ‘Take me!'” Mahrez recalled.
Today, Mahrez is enjoying a legendary stint in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli. He has cemented his status as a “Raqui” icon, leading the team to glory by winning the AFC Champions League Elite title.
