The captain of the Algerian national team, Riyad Mahrez, expressed his great comfort living in Saudi Arabia, noting that life there aligns closely with his religion and culture.

He said in media statements: "Life in Saudi Arabia is closer to my religion and culture.. the mosques are nearby, and I spend more time with my family because training takes place in the evening."

He added: "In England, the situation was also good; there are many mosques, and everyone practices their rituals freely, but in France, it's different. Although there are mosques, the respect in England is much greater."

Mahrez praised the warmth of the Saudi Al-Ahli fans, saying: "The Al-Ahli fans really surprised me; even before I signed, they were filling my accounts with posts urging me to join, and I did."

The Algerian international touched on the possibility of Lionel Messi joining Al-Ahli in the future, saying: "There is no special protection for dribblers in the Saudi league; perhaps Messi would receive different treatment if he decides to join, whereas I have faced many hits."

He added: "We saw reports suggesting the possibility of Messi coming to Al-Ahli.. playing alongside him would be a dream; I imagine him as a playmaker and myself on the wing; we would form a wonderful duo, and the Al-Ahli fans deserve a star like him."

Mahrez concluded his remarks by comparing Manchester City and Al-Ahli, stating: "The level here is lower than City, and that is natural.. City is currently the highest standard in football."