OFFICIAL: Riyad Mahrez Signs for Nottingham Forest on Season-Long Loan — A Statement Signing at the City Ground
In what will go down as one of the most unexpected transfers of the summer, Nottingham Forest have officially completed the loan signing of Riyad Mahrez from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, bringing the former Premier League winner and Algerian icon back to English football. The season-long loan has sent shockwaves through the footballing world and reignited excitement across the red half of Nottingham.
The 33-year-old winger, widely regarded as one of the finest creative talents of his generation, will now don the red shirt of Forest in the 2025/26 campaign. The deal marks a significant coup for the East Midlands club, who are aiming for mid-table stability and long-term growth in their third consecutive Premier League season since promotion in 2022.
Club Announcement: A Star Arrives at the City Ground
Nottingham Forest broke the news with a cinematic reveal video posted across their official social media platforms. The video showed Mahrez walking through the City Ground tunnel under a cascade of red smoke, before emerging onto the pitch holding a Forest shirt emblazoned with his name and iconic No. 26.
The club followed up with a statement:
“Nottingham Forest are delighted to confirm the arrival of Riyad Mahrez on a season-long loan from Al-Ahli. A proven winner and global football icon, Mahrez joins our project with a wealth of experience and talent that will excite fans and elevate the squad.”
Mahrez Speaks: “The Fire Still Burns”
In his first interview as a Forest player, Mahrez expressed genuine enthusiasm about the new chapter in his illustrious career:
“This is a new challenge, and I love challenges. Nottingham Forest is a club with a huge history and passionate supporters. I’ve played at the City Ground — I know how much energy it has. I want to help the team climb, grow, and achieve more.”
He added:
“The fire to play at a high level still burns inside me. I’m here to fight and to contribute in every way I can.”
From Manchester to Mecca — Now to Nottingham
Mahrez’s journey has been a storied one. After arriving at Leicester City in 2014 for a modest fee, he became a cult hero and the creative force behind the Foxes’ unbelievable 2015/16 Premier League title win. His efforts earned him the PFA Player of the Year award.
In 2018, he made a £60 million move to Manchester City, where he won multiple domestic titles under Pep Guardiola, including:
- 4 Premier League titles
- 2 FA Cups
- 3 League Cups
- 1 UEFA Champions League title
In 2023, Mahrez moved to Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia. Despite initial promise, the move was met with mixed results, and Mahrez began to seek a return to competitive European football.
Why Nottingham Forest?
The big question many fans and pundits are asking is — why Nottingham Forest?
Sources close to the player suggest that Mahrez was enticed by the vision laid out by manager Nuno Espírito Santo and the opportunity to lead a developing squad. Forest have been building steadily, combining young talent with experienced figures like Morgan Gibbs-White and Felipe. Mahrez’s addition brings elite quality and a much-needed creative spark.
Nuno commented:
“We’re building something real here. Riyad is a winner. He’ll bring not just goals and assists, but calmness, intelligence, and mentorship for our younger players.”
Deal Structure: Loan With Responsibility
The loan deal is believed to be financially structured to avoid breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which several Premier League clubs have fallen foul of in recent seasons. Al-Ahli will reportedly cover a portion of Mahrez’s wages, making the deal viable for Forest’s budget.
While there is no option to buy, the agreement is seen as a win-win for both clubs. Forest gain a game-changer, and Al-Ahli allow their high-profile asset to gain match fitness and visibility in Europe.
Fan Reaction: Jubilation and Optimism
The reaction from Forest supporters has been nothing short of euphoric. Many fans took to social media to express disbelief and excitement at seeing such a marquee name at the City Ground.
One fan wrote on X:
“Still in shock. Riyad Mahrez in a Forest shirt? What a time to be alive.”
Another added:
“This is a massive statement. Shows we’re not here to just survive — we want to compete.”
Sales of Forest shirts with Mahrez’s name were reported to spike within hours of the announcement, and ticket demand for the opening fixtures of the season is now expected to surge.
Tactical Impact and What Mahrez Brings
Mahrez will likely slot in on the right wing, allowing Gibbs-White to operate more freely in the central role. His ability to cut inside, deliver precise passes, and unlock defences is expected to significantly improve Forest’s attacking threat.
He also offers set-piece expertise, experience in high-pressure matches, and leadership on and off the pitch — attributes that Forest have lacked in crucial moments over the last two seasons.
Looking Ahead: Can Forest Reach the Next Level?
Nottingham Forest’s main goal this season is to solidify their place in the Premier League and avoid another relegation scrap. With Mahrez now in the ranks, there is cautious optimism that the club can aim higher — possibly pushing into the top half of the table.
Chairman Evangelos Marinakis said:
“This signing reflects our ambition. Riyad Mahrez is a world-class footballer. We’re proud to bring him to Nottingham and show that this club is serious about growth and identity.”
Final Thoughts: A Transfer That Changes Everything
Riyad Mahrez’s arrival at Nottingham Forest is not just a headline — it’s a game-changer. It brings credibility, star power, and elite quality to a team that has been quietly improving. For Mahrez, it’s a chance to show that he’s still among football’s finest. For Forest, it’s a step toward something much bigger.
As the City Ground faithful prepare to sing once more, one thing is clear: Premier League defenders beware — Riyad Mahrez is back.
