Riyad Mahrez injury
Mahrez’s injury occurred after just five minutes of play in the United States friendly match against Bayern Munich. This was following a challenge from Bayern’s American defender Chris Richards. Manchester City’s €68 million signing tried to jog it off, but couldn’t continue and limped off the Hard Rock Stadium pitch in the 27th minute.
After the match, Pep Guardiola said he was in the dark over the extent of Riyad’s injury, but confirmed his ankle was hurt.
“I don’t know. I wasn’t in the locker room. It was his ankle. We will see.”
Mahrez immediately flew out to England to get examined by team doctors. He is set to undergo scans today, but he was already seen using crutches and sporting a protective cast. At this point, it looks likely that Riyad will miss Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Chelsea and could also miss the start of Manchester City’s Premier League season.
It’s a blow for Guardiola, who is already having to deal with a decimated squad.
“I’m concerned for many things, for injured players, players who are still not here but I am so satisfied for what all of the guys on the tour have done.”
He was counting on Mahrez being available, which is why the Algerian featured in all three matches during City’s U.S. tour.
Bernardo Silva shines in a 3-2 comeback win
Leroy Sane was deemed physically unfit by the Spanish manager and was left on the bench against Bayern. On the other hand, Bernardo Silva really shined. He played an integral part in The Citizens’ 3-2 comeback in Miami. He scored two goals and was one of the most active players on the pitch. As a result, the Portuguese winger could be in for an expanded role to begin the new campaign.
17-year-old defender Eric Garcia and 18-year-old forward Brahim Diaz were the two Manchester City youngsters who left a long-lasting impression during the three-game tour.