Manchester City kick their preseason campaign off in America as they face Borussia Dortmund.
The clash against the German club is the first of three in the Sky Blues’ International Champions Cup warm-up schedule. City also take on Liverpool and Bayern Munich, prior to the Community Shield clash against Chelsea in early August.
Last season Manchester City catapulted themselves into an esteemed, exclusive group of the Premier League’s prime teams.
A distinctive style under Pep Guardiola, fundamental to City’s success, will hopefully see the Manchester club prosper further this term.
It all gets underway on Saturday in the States. Here are two things to expect as Manchester City begin their 2018/19 venture with sky-high anticipation.
1. Riyad Mahrez’s club debut
It is predicted Riyad Mahrez’s life with the Sky Blues will begin on Saturday.
Naturally the former Leicester man will be far more focused on his competitive debut, but expect to see the Algerian stimulated against Borussia Dortmund.
The club-record signing has the spotlight firmly on him, and he has finally taken the long-awaited sizeable step in his career.
He has revealed more than just glimpses of his quality throughout his fruitful years in the Midlands. His title-winning acumen, alongside a lethal ability to carve through defences, makes him an auspicious prospect for Manchester City.
Guardiola should be keen to get as much playing time under Mahrez’s belt as possible. The Algerian is expected to play a significant role this season, especially with another Champions League adventure allowing for squad rotation.
With the squad containing a scant few star names – most of whom are still recovering from the World Cup – Riyad Mahrez stands out as a luminary.
It means he has more freedom, however the potentially burdening responsibility of providing the central spark means he might have a crucial role in this clash.
Mahrez should get off to an optimistic start. Alongside Leroy Sane, terrorising the Dortmund rearguard looks like his chief duty.