Pep Guardiola's decision to allow an African to leave Manchester City has been questioned, with the void left by his departure also being highlighted.
Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez left the Citizens to join Saudi Pro League outfit Al Ahli in 2023, and former Arsenal star, turned pundit, Thierry Henry criticised the club's decision to let him go.
Read: OFFICIAL: Africa's top 10 confirmed in latest FIFA rankings
Mahrez, who joined the Sky Blues from Leicester City in July 2018, was a crucial part of Guardiola's squad during his five-year stint at the club.
The Algerian international made 236 appearances, contributing an impressive 78 goals and 56 assists across all competitions.
His creativity and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments played a key role in City's domestic and European dominance.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Henry did not hold back in criticising Guardiola's decision.
"This is the first time we can really question Pep's choices," the former Arsenal striker remarked per Afrik Foot.
"Letting a player like Mahrez go without finding a replacement at his level is incomprehensible. He brought unique creativity and knew how to unlock crucial situations."
in his debut season with Al Ahli the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations winner registered 12 goals and 14 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions.
The winger has continued to shine in the Saudi Pro League, adding four goals this season, amassing seven goals and seven assists in 20 appearances so far.
City, meanwhile, have struggled this campaign. The side currently it in fifth place on the Premier League table, and have won just one of their last eleven matches in all competitions.
This season, the side's talisman Erling Haaland has a shot conversion rate of 22.03%, according to FootyStats, and a shooting accuracy rate of 54% in the league.
Henry pointed out that the chances missed by the Norwegian forward are now more costly because of the lack of creativity behind him.
"Haaland scores, but he also misses chances, and without players like Mahrez, those misses weigh more heavily," the former Barcelona attacker said.
Read: Rashford's dream move 'revealed' after shock exit comments
The reigning English champions will have the opportunity to turn things around when they travel to Aston Villa for a Premier League encounter on Saturday.