Premier League (City-Chelsea, seen from Africa, 2/2): Riyad Mahrez in break-in mode
This Saturday, September 25, Manchester City of Riyad Mahrez and Chelsea of Edouard Mendy and Hakim Ziyech will cross swords on the occasion of the 7th day of the Premier League. In what state of form are these three African internationals now months after their last meeting in the Champions League final?
Riyad Mahrez in break-in mode
Riyad Mahrez made the most of his vacation. The Manchester City strong winger last season appeared with extra weight as he returned to business for the 2021-2021 campaign. A physical condition which was not without consequence on the start of the season of the 30-year-old.
Unlike its thunderous end of the season during the 2020-2021 fiscal year. The Algerian then walked on the water with in particular 3 goals scored against Paris Saint-Germain of Neymar and Kylian Mbappé. It was in the semi-finals of the Champions League. Riyad Mahrez is however timidly starting this new campaign.
And his less physical move is no stranger to it. With his twirling game made of dribbling, feints, acceleration, the former number 26 of Leicester indeed needs to be physically sharp to be able to evolve at his best level.
His current stats in PL: 4 matches, 146 minutes played, 1 goal, 1 assist
This form, the African Golden Ball in 2016 should not be long in finding it. Established in the round of 16 of the Carabao Cup against Wycombe last Tuesday, Mahrez was more leggy than in his previous appearances. He also left his mark on this meeting by signing a double and an assist for a final victory for the Citizens (6-1).
An XXL performance from the player who did not fail to please his trainer Pepe Guardiola. The Spanish technician will need his player in full possession of his means this Saturday to hope to bring down Chelsea. The team to beat at the start of the season.
By: NINAHAZWE Diane 💢 Africa News24
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