Slimani: No Algerian Can Do What Mahrez Does in EPL

Fenerbache’s Islam Slimani believes no Algerian international could match Riyad Mahrez’s talent in the English Premier League.

The 27-year-old, bought last July for £60m by Manchester City, spurred The Citizens past a stubborn New Port County in the FA Cup scoring in the final 4-1 thumping of the League One outfit.

It was the former Leicester City man’s tenth goal in all competitions. And following this dazzling show, compatriot Islam Slimani, watching from a distance, is all praises for the wide-man.

“To my knowledge, never has there been an Algerian player who could do what Mahrez does in the Premier League. To evolve in Manchester City with a great coach like Guardiola, you always need a time of adaptation. You know what he was doing in training when we were together in Leicester, it’s just amazing,” 30-year-old Slimani says.

“You know, when you get to that level, it means everything. It means you are a big one. I played with him for two years at Leicester and almost now four years in the national team. Riyadh is almost the best player with whom I have played with during my career,” the erstwhile Sporting Lisbon’s prized possession tells Le Buteur.

Mahrez has started ten times in the EPL for City.

He continued: “When a big club and a great coach spend money to bring a player, like Manchester City with Mahrez, it is because they know his value well. So, we have to be proud and encourage him as an Algerian, because after all he represents Algeria.”

Islam and Fenerbache are battling to escape demotion to the Turkish Super Lig. The striker and company are coming on the receiving end of derides for their profligacy this season.

Islam has scored only once in a total of 15 cameos this term.