Barely signed, Mahrez could already return to Al-Ahli!

Oct 29, 2026

Just a few weeks after his arrival at Al-Shamal, Riyad Mahrez's future could already take a new turn. In Saudi Arabia, his former club may not have completely moved on.

Barely settled in Qatar, Riyad Mahrez's name is resurfacing in Jeddah. According to reports from Saudi Arabia, the interim management of Al-Ahli has internally discussed the possibility of bringing back their former winger as early as the winter transfer window.

For now, nothing is official: no offers or negotiations with Al-Shamal have been announced, and the idea remains in the contemplation stage. Such a return would also require a review of the registration of foreign players in the Saudi squad.

Mahrez knows the club well. Arriving in 2023, the Fennec spent three seasons there before leaving last summer, with two AFC Champions League titles to his name (2025 and 2026). This experience explains the club's interest. However, Al-Shamal, which officially signed him on October 14 for one season with an option for another, would like to keep him. According to some reports, the Algerian has a clause allowing him to leave as early as January.

The 35-year-old player has quickly justified the excitement. On Tuesday, October 27, he provided two assists during the victory against Al-Hilal (3-1), first for Bounedjah (48th minute) and then for Ben Romdhane from a free kick (54th minute), after scoring a penalty against Qatar SC. This has fueled further speculation.

DZfoot