Man City, Leicester clash underscored by Riyad Mahrez’s absence

The Premier League clash between Manchester City and Leicester City at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, 10 February 2018, will be underscored by the absence of Riyad Mahrez.

The mercurial Algerian attacker was on the verge of joining Man City from the Foxes at the end of last month, but the transfer window snapped shut with Leicester having rejected a big-money offer for the player.

Mahrez has skipped training ever since and is reportedly depressed at his inability to leave the club. He is set to miss this match against his potential suitors, who may well bid for his services again in the European summer.

Man City come into the match having drawn 1-1 away to Burnley last weekend, and they will be eager to return to winning form and continue their romp to the Premier League title.

As for Leicester, they also drew 1-1 (at home to Swansea City) and will be hoping to put in a performance which draws attention to their on-field prowess and away from the ongoing awkwardness with Mahrez. 

In head-to-head stats, Man City and Leicester have met in 77 matches across all competitions. The Citizens have claimed 33 wins compared to 25 for the Foxes, while 19 games have been drawn.

The teams’ latest meeting was a League Cup clash at the King Power Stadium in December last year – the match ended 1-1 before Man City triumphed on penalties. Pep Guardiola’s team has also won the last two league clashes between the sides, 2-1 at home in May 2017 and 2-0 away in November of the same year. 

Recent league form, latest results first

Man City – DWWLW

Leicester – DLWDW

Head-to-head, all competitions

Matches played 77

Man City wins 33

Leicester wins 25

Draws 19

Man City goals 144

Leicester goals 123