Guardiola defends Manchester City’s pursuit of Leicester star

Pep Guardiola has responded to criticism aimed at Manchester City by Leicester City boss Claude Puel following the Premier League leaders’ failed attempts to sign Riyad Mahrez in January. 

City made a late play for the Algerian last month, yet failed to get a deal done for the Algeria international, who then proceeded to go on strike after the move fell through. 

Puel was angered by City’s approach that resulted in Mahrez’s 10-day absence before his return to the Leicester squad in their 5-1 defeat to City. 

The 26-year-old returned to the starting XI for the Foxes’ 1-0 win over Sheffield United on Friday night, a game in which Mahrez was awarded the WhoScored man of the match. 

Guardiola did not want to be dragged into any controversy, but has defended City after their attempts to sign Mahrez. 

"I think the club made a statement and it was so clear what happened,” Guardiola is quoted as saying by the Daily Telegraph. 

“The club made a statement and always tries to do the best for us, and of course respecting the opponents." 

Guardiola will now hope the matter is closed as his side gears up for their FA Cup fifth round meeting with Wigan Athletic on Monday night.