Riyad Mahrez has downplayed rumors that he would leave Manchester City this summer, claiming that he is currently not considering a trade out.
Mahrez is with Algeria for the last matches of 2022–23 when City’s season ends, although he has been linked with a move away this summer after losing his spot in Pep Guardiola’s first-choice side.
Mahrez missed out on playing in the European quarterfinals and semifinals as well as the FA Cup and Champions League finals. Although his hat-trick in the FA Cup semifinal against Sheffield United served as a reminder of his talent, he only started nine of the final 18 games of the season, including the three league games played after the championship was certain.
Because of this, there have been rumors that the 32-year-old may move this summer in pursuit of more consistent play, with Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly interested in recruiting him. Mahrez, however, is adamant that he is not considering a transfer right now.
Mahrez missed out on playing in the European quarterfinals and semifinals as well as the FA Cup and Champions League finals.
Mahrez told Algerian journalists while on international duty: “I have two years left at Manchester. There is nothing as of yet. I’m focusing on these two matches for Algeria before taking a vacation.
Despite Mahrez’s clear skills in big games, Guardiola claimed after the FA Cup semi-final that he had “lost the battle” in convincing him that he was a crucial part of his squad. Mahrez had to give up the starting spot to Bernardo in the matches against Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Real Madrid, United, and Inter. However, Bernardo is also rumoured to be moving on, which might give Mahrez greater playing time next season.
The Algerian’s contract has two years left, but City will be mindful they can lose Mahrez for a crucial month in 2024 because of the African Cup of Nations, which will take place in January and February.