Despite missing out on his “dream” move to Spain, Mahrez’s career did not suffer. He eventually secured a £60m move to Manchester City in 2018, where he evolved into one of Guardiola’s most reliable performers. His time in Manchester was incredibly fruitful, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest African players to ever grace the English top flight.
By the time he departed for the Saudi Pro League in 2023, Mahrez had amassed a trophy cabinet that would be the envy of any professional. During his stellar tenure with Manchester City, he won four Premier League titles, five domestic trophies, and finally lifted the Champions League trophy in his final season with the club, proving that while the Barcelona dream died, his career reached incredible heights regardless.