Algerian star Riyad Mahrez, captain of Al-Ahli, made strong statements that ignited the competitive atmosphere in the Saudi Professional League after leading his team to an important victory over Al-Khaleej. Mahrez confirmed that winning the league title is the team's ultimate goal this season, while also expressing his hope that the league leaders, Al-Hilal, would stumble, thus opening the door for their rivals.
Mahrez's comments came after Al-Ahli's match against Al-Khaleej in the 17th round of the competition, which ended with Al-Ahli winning 4-1. In a press conference, Mahrez said, "I'm happy with the team's victory. Our goal is to focus on each upcoming match individually, and we'll take things one step at a time. The picture will be clearer in two months, and of course, I hope Al-Hilal loses so we can take the lead and win the title, which is our goal, but we know it won't be easy.".
Competition context and historical background
Mahrez's statements take on special significance given the current competitive context in the Roshan League, which is witnessing unprecedented momentum after attracting major international stars as part of an ambitious sports project in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030. Al-Hilal occupies the top spot with a comfortable lead, delivering exceptional performances, while Al-Ahli, recently returned to the Professional League and one of the historical giants of Saudi football, seeks to prove its strong presence and compete for the title, benefiting from its quality signings that included players of the caliber of Mahrez, Firmino, and Kessie.
The importance of the statement and its expected impact
Domestically, the Al-Ahli captain's words serve as a direct challenge to the league leaders, boosting morale among his team and fans, and reaffirming that the club's ambitions extend beyond mere participation. Regionally and internationally, such competitive statements from a player of Riyad Mahrez's caliber, a Premier League and Champions League winner, lend credibility and strength to the Roshan League brand, confirming that global stars don't come to Saudi Arabia to retire, but to seriously compete for titles, thus enhancing the league's appeal to viewers and investors worldwide.
This sixth consecutive victory for Al-Ahly reflects the team's technical stability and rising performance, making Mahrez and his teammates' ambitions legitimate, and foreshadowing an exciting football season that may hold many surprises until its final rounds.
