Riyad Mahrez Highlights Al Ahly's Struggles Ahead of Key AFC Champions League Match

Riyad Mahrez, Al Ahly’s Algerian star, has outlined the team’s shortcomings that have impacted their season, ahead of their AFC Champions League elite-stage clash against Iraq’s Al Shorta on Monday at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah. Despite early exits from the King's Cup and a current ninth-place standing in the Saudi Pro League, Al Ahly’s Champions League campaign remains positive, with three wins placing them second behind Al Hilal on goal difference.

In a recent press conference, Mahrez addressed team issues, admitting, "There are positions without the right players." He explained that he thrives in a balanced team but can't single-handedly bypass six players to score. Echoing Mahrez, coach Matthias Jaissle also hinted at management’s failure to replace key players like Allan Saint-Maximin, who joined Fenerbahçe on loan this past summer. Jaissle acknowledged fans' frustration, noting the team’s incomplete summer transfer plans left them vulnerable in critical areas.