Riyad Mahrez, a winger from Algeria, has signed a contract with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ahli till 2027, the two teams announced on Friday.
Financial information was not made public, but British media reported that the Premier League champions had accepted a 35 million euro ($38.53 million) bid from the Saudi team plus five million in add-ons.
“To play for Manchester City has been an honour and privilege,” Mahrez said in a statement.
“I came to City to win trophies and enjoy my football and I achieved all that and so much more.
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“I have had five unforgettable years with this football club, working with unbelievable players, fantastic supporters, and the best manager in the world…
“Manchester City will forever be a huge and happy part of my life.”
Following his transfer from Leicester City in 2018, Mahrez made 236 appearances for City in all competitions, registered 78 goals and 59 assists, and the team won 11 trophies, including five league crowns.
The 32-year-old’s position for Pep Guardiola’s team was diminished last season; he scored 15 goals in 47 games, but was inactive for City’s historic treble-winning FA Cup and Champions League final victories.
He extended his contract last year till 2025.
Mahrez will partner with Senegal custodian Edouard Mendy, who last month transferred from Chelsea to the Saudi club.
The Portuguese international Bernardo Silva has been linked to a move to Saudi Arabia with Al Hilal, according to British media reports, thus City may potentially sell another midfielder.
Since Cristiano Ronaldo came to Al Nassr in January, the Saudi Pro league has grown in popularity with players from Europe.