Algeria erupt against Guardiola's treatment of Mahrez
The Algerian press have lambasted Pep Guardiola and the British media for their treatment of striker Riyad Mahrez, particularly after the game against Real Madrid at the Etihad.
It was the 25th minute of the game when Mahrez had a clear chance against Courtois, but sent the ball wide. That goal would have made it 3-0 and would have been a huge blow to Real Madrid. Guardiola knew this and did not hesitate to show his anger by shouting at the striker, and you could even read his lips calling out his name. The gestures were too exaggerated, although the Catalan could also be seen on his knees wailing after Vinicius's run that led to the Brazilian's goal.
The Algerian media noted that two minutes later Guardiola did not have the same reaction to Phil Foden when he missed another clear goal-scoring chance.
There appears to be a section of the British press that is highly critical of Mahrez and accuses him of missing too many chances. Former City defender Micah Richards wrote in his weekly column for BBC Sport that Mahrez might have the same goalscoring figures as Salah, but lacks "concentration in front of goal" and "quality in front of goal".
Added to that, the Algerian was blamed by the Global Goal website for missing a clear-cut chance in the 85th minute against Liverpool when the score was 2-2. This means that the end of the Premier League will be frantic for the two teams that are also playing in the Champions League.
Sergio Agüero, a City legend, has lashed out at Guardiola in The Sun, "I don't like Guardiola getting angry with Mahrez like that," the Argentinian said.
Mahrez's days at Guardiola's City are numbered. The end of the season will be the one that will dictate the relationship between the player and the Catalan coach. There is a Premier League and Champions League at stake. The Algerian's contract runs out in June 2023 and if City wants to make some money they would have to sell him next summer.
Speculation about a possible destination at Real Madrid was sparked after the game against Real Madrid when footage captured Ancelotti holding Mahrez and talking in his ear.
L'Equipe had already speculated about the interest in the Algerian and a possible transfer for 40 million euros.
The second leg, the magic of the Bernabeu and Guardiola's treatment could force the departure of one of the Premier League's best players to Real Madrid.
