Gabby Agbonlahor has urged Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola to start Riyad Mahrez against Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final second leg.
The former Aston Villa striker suggested the same a couple of days ago due to Bernardo Silva’s ineffective outing against Los Blancos in the first leg.
As Manchester City face Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night, Gabby Agbonlahor believes Riyad Mahrez could emerge as the difference-maker.
Agbonlahor says Mahrez should start for Manchester City against Real Madrid
The £60 million (Sky Sports) man has registered three assists in his last two Premier League starts against Leeds United and Everton.
While Mahrez has not had the season one expects from a player of his calibre, his near-inevitability on Champions League nights remains undeniable.
Gabby Agbonlahor believes that Manchester City could have a real edge over Real Madrid if Riyad Mahrez is given the chance to shine.
“I hope Mahrez plays, I feel like he’ll cause [Eduardo] Camavinga so many problems on that right-hand side”, he said on talkSPORT.
MCN View: Arguments can be made for both Mahrez and Bernardo to start
Considering how Eduardo Camavinga kept Bernardo Silva quiet at the Santiago Bernabéu, one can understand why Gabby Agbonlahor is of the opinion that Riyad Mahrez should start for Manchester City against Real Madrid.
Mahrez, being a natural wideman whilst being an extremely skilful 1v1 threat would be much more of a threat to any left-back.
In addition, the Algerian captain, as mentioned earlier tends to come alive in Europe, as was especially the case during the 2020/2021 season when City reached the final.
However, Bernardo Silva remains the ultimate big-game player.
The manner in which the Portuguese international toyed with Alphonso Davies and Joao Cancelo in the previous round was a sight to behold and more importantly, his defensive workrate is worth its weight in gold.
Bernardo Silva’s tireless pressing and adept tackling could prove key in restricting the visitors’ frightening left-hand side that includes Vinicius Jr. and Eduardo Camavinga.
Pep Guardiola has a big decision on his hands and at the end of the day, starting either of the right-wingers would make complete sense.
