Pep Guardiola hails Riyad Mahrez and Fernandinho following Manchester City’s clinical performance against Burnley in the Premier League.
City thumped the Clarets 5-0 to maintain their dominance in the Premier League. On the back of a goalless draw against Liverpool in the last match, the onus was on Mahrez as he was on the receiving end after squandering a golden chance to win the match for his side.
Mahrez missed a penalty against the Reds but he hit back with a brilliant all round display to sink Sean Dyche’s side. The Algerian winger netted his first goal at the Etihad Stadium as City marched on towards the Premier League title.
Fernandinho was in full control of the midfield and pulled the strings to dictate the pace of the game. The Brazilian international also registered his name on the scoresheet with a scorcher of a shot.
Guardiola praised Mahrez. “In Anfield, he played so good… that’s why he played today.
“He played with personality. Only the takers can miss a penalty. He scored a great goal, but the assists he created, how aggressive he was, was so good.
“Riyad made a good performance. We knew he was a talented player. He’s a guy who likes to play with the ball. He goes to the byline, can score with left or right.
“He’s a good signing for us.”
He went on to add, “Fernandinho in the period we are together, he is so important for us. No doubt about that,
“Today he was clever, his body shape, every time he received the ball he was ready for it. He was incredible – extraordinary.
“Today was one of the best performances this season. He is a key player for us.”
