Kessie's Requests 'Rejected' at Al-Ahli

July 5, 2026 - 19:03 | Last updated July 5, 2026 - 19:03

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Ayeed Aldahas (Jeddah) ayeedaldahas24@

Okaz learned from its private sources that the technical committee of Al-Ahli club, which includes Portuguese sporting director Rui Pedro and German coach Matthias Jaissle, had prioritized the continuity of Ivorian Franck Kessie by renewing his contract for two additional seasons, in order to maintain the stability of the midfield.

The sources indicated that the player's desire to obtain a three-season contract prevented the agreement, as the technical committee insisted on a shorter contract format that aligns with the club's technical plans and the upcoming phase.

In another matter, the technical committee moved to terminate ties with Algerian Riyad Mahrez, as part of a comprehensive review of the team's forward line needs, and its desire to sign a winger with higher speed and greater ability to perform offensive and defensive roles.

The technical committee seeks to select a foreign element that fits Jaissle's style, based on pressing and quick transitions, and gives the team broader solutions on the flanks, in preparation for upcoming domestic and continental competitions.

Al-Ahli club had officially announced the departure of the duo Franck Kessie and Riyad Mahrez, sending them messages of thanks and appreciation through its official accounts, after their contributions with the team in past seasons that witnessed achieving many accomplishments, most notably winning two AFC Champions League Elite titles, along with the Saudi Super Cup.

Al-Ahli Saudi Club, Al-Ahli, Al-Ahli, Saudi League, Saudi Roshn Professional League, Franck Kessie, Riyad Mahrez, Matthias Jaissle