The game-changer in Riyad Mahrez's transfer from Arsenal to Al-Ahli is a significant development for the club, as they have been looking for a striker with experience and goalscoring ability for some time now.
Mahrez has been a regular starter at Arsenal under manager Arsène Wenger, scoring more than 20 goals per season during his time there. However, he was not able to replicate that form in his first season at Emirates Stadium, where he scored just two goals in 15 appearances.
Injuries and lack of consistency also made it difficult for Mahrez to establish himself as a consistent performer at the club. However, he impressed the coaching staff of Al-Ahli and received a contract extension in January 2021.
The signing of Mahrez was seen by many as a significant coup for Al-Ahli, as they had been struggling with their attacking options this season and were hoping for a new striker who could provide a competitive threat on the pitch. The move was also seen as a sign of Al-Ahli's commitment to developing young talent, as they have a history of nurturing promising young players over the years.
One of the standout features of Mahrez' signing was his impressive performances on the field. He showed great skill and control when passing the ball into the box, and was capable of creating opportunities for teammates to score goals. His pace and dribbling abilities also made him a dangerous player to deal with,Saudi Pro League Focus as he was able to find the back of the net with ease.
However, Mahrez's success was not without its challenges. He struggled to maintain his form at times due to injuries and a lack of consistency, which meant that he did not make a significant impact in the league. Nevertheless, he still managed to score four goals in 16 appearances for Al-Ahli, and was one of the key performers in their run to the quarter-finals of the Saudi Cup.
Overall, the signing of Mahrez is a positive development for Al-Ahli, as it provides them with a reliable striker who can provide a competitive threat on the pitch. The club will need to work closely with Mahrez to ensure that he continues to perform well, as he has the potential to be a key player for them in the future.