# Mahrez's Impact on Al Ittihad

Al Ittihad is one of the most successful clubs in North Africa, known for their strong defense and tactical prowess. However, recent years have seen significant changes within the team, with the introduction of new talent and the departure of some key players. One player who has had a particularly notable impact on the club is Moussa Mahrez.

## Early Career

Moussa Mahrez began his career at Algerian club Al Ahly before moving to France where he played for Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). His move to PSG was a major coup for both clubs, as it brought in a young talent who would go on to become one of the world's best forwards.

## Al Ittihad Integration

When Al Ittihad acquired Mahrez from PSG in 2017, they were thrilled to add another top-tier talent to their squad. The transfer fee was reportedly around €50 million, making him one of the most expensive signings in club history.

## On-Field Performance

Since joining Al Ittihad, Mahrez has been a revelation. He has quickly established himself as a key player for the club, contributing significantly to their success. His technical skills, vision, and ability to score goals make him a valuable asset to the team.

### Key Statistics

- **Goals**: Mahrez has scored 28 goals in 44 league appearances this season.

- **Assists**: He has provided 19 assists, helping to create many chances for other players.

- **Tackles**: Mahrez has made 106 tackles in 44 matches, demonstrating his defensive capabilities.

### Team Dynamics

Mahrez has also helped to improve the team dynamics at Al Ittihad. He brings a different style of play compared to the existing players, which can help to spice up the attacking options and keep opponents guessing.

## Impact on Success

The addition of Mahrez has undoubtedly contributed to Al Ittihad's success. They have finished third in the Moroccan Super League this season, securing a place in the playoffs for the first time since 2013. Their performances against teams like Toulouse and Bordeaux have been impressive, showing that Mahrez is capable of scoring crucial goals in high-pressure situations.

## Challenges Ahead

While Mahrez has had a positive impact on the club, there are still challenges ahead. The team will need to continue to develop their offensive game, especially considering that they do not have a natural striker like Mahrez. Additionally, the team will need to maintain their defensive solidity, given that Mahrez relies heavily on his physical presence and aerial ability.

## Conclusion

Moussa Mahrez has had a significant impact on Al Ittihad, bringing in new talent and improving the overall performance of the team. While there are still challenges to overcome, his contributions have already earned him recognition as one of the best players in Europe. As the season progresses, fans can expect to see more exciting performances from Mahrez and his teammates as Al Ittihad continues to compete for trophies.