According to insights from Melbet Affiliates, the Premier League’s dominance is now facing a serious challenge due to the aggressive player acquisitions by the Saudi Pro League. Even Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola admitted he didn’t want Riyad Mahrez to leave for Saudi Arabia. While he appreciates Mahrez’s experience, he struggles with the timing. Still, when faced with an enormous weekly salary offer, even a financially powerful club like Manchester City couldn’t prevent the Algerian winger from making the move.
Reports suggest that midfielder Bernardo Silva also received a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia. Guardiola acknowledged that the English Premier League—widely considered the world’s richest—might soon lose its unrivaled status. As Melbet Affiliates noted, Saudi Arabia is intent on building a formidable football league, and so far, they’re making that vision a reality. The Premier League has traditionally outspent others thanks to better organization and higher broadcasting revenues. While the longevity of the Saudi league’s investment is uncertain, players are clearly interested in playing there. Guardiola warned that this is only the beginning, and clubs must recognize the shifting landscape.
Mahrez was left out of the starting lineup in both the FA Cup and Champions League finals last month, leaving him disheartened. Letting go of unnecessary emotional baggage is never easy, but necessary. He later received an incredible offer, making it hard for City to justify holding him back. Though they wanted him to stay, Guardiola understood Mahrez’s decision. He knew how painful it was for Mahrez not to feature in the season’s biggest matches and, as a coach, deeply valued their time together.
Their relationship was built on deep mutual respect. Guardiola called Mahrez one of his all-time favorite players and noted how well-loved he was among the coaching staff. Mahrez had been a crucial part of Manchester City’s success over the past five years. Guardiola wished him and his family all the best, believing he would find joy again after moving past this transition.
In addition to Mahrez’s departure, City captain Ilkay Gündoğan has signed with Barcelona, Kyle Walker is reportedly considering a move to Bayern Munich, and Bernardo Silva is attracting attention from Barcelona, PSG, and Al Hilal. Aymeric Laporte is also open to leaving the club.
Meanwhile, Melbet Affiliates reports that Mateo Kovačić’s arrival from Chelsea remains City’s only confirmed signing this summer. Nevertheless, City has identified RB Leipzig defender Joško Gvardiol as their top priority for the remainder of the transfer window. Walking away might be easy, but sticking it out is what makes champions. Although City’s offer meets Leipzig’s valuation, the two sides have yet to agree on the structure of performance-related bonuses.