Riyad Mahrez has been short of form and playing time this campaign, which is in complete contrast to how last season went, but Kevin Campbell believes he can turn things around if he applies himself in training.
The 31-year-old netted 11 times with five assists from 28 league games in 2021/22, but he’s scored just one goal and is without an assist in eight Premier League games this season, so it’s no wonder Guardiola doesn’t start him.
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Mahrez has started only three league outings from a possible 10 and was an unused substitute in City’s 1-0 defeat to Liverpool. Campbell admitted being surprised by Guardiola’s treatment of the Algerian international.
Last season, Mahrez had a hand in 33 goals from 47 games across the board and signed a new deal over the summer as recognition for his form, so it would seem surprising that he’s been dropped by Pep. But with the 31-year-old coming off the bench for 34% of his appearances in 2021/22, Mahrez is used to this treatment.
Nevertheless, Campbell told Football Insider: “It is a slight surprise, but he is coming off the bench a lot. We tend to see him more in the second half of the season. Mahrez is a quality player. He will get his games. It is just a case of when you get them with Pep Guardiola.
“If Mahrez was upset with his game time he would address the situation, I’m sure. I do not think he feels that way though. Sometimes you don’t get picked, that is the reality of football. Mahrez needs to prove his worth on the training ground. Managers want players that are hungry.”
Mahrez only started 15 of his 28 league appearances last season despite being prolific throughout the campaign, so that may be why he’s not kicking up a fuss about being dropped.
Being left on the bench against Liverpool may hurt, however, as it was evidence that Guardiola no longer trusts him in a crisis. Mahrez has gone some work to do.
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