Kalvin Phillips has developed into one of the best players for Leeds United and England, and the midfielder’s comments about reported Arsenal target Riyad Mahrez underline just how good a player manager Mikel Arteta will get, if they sign him.
Phillips has said that Manchester City winger Mahrez is one of the toughest opponents he has faced in his career so far.
The Leeds midfielder was referring to the time when he faced the Algeria international winger when the latter was at Leicester City.
What’s been said
Phillips said on England’s YouTube channel when asked about the toughest opponents he has faced: “I can remember playing Mo Salah on the first day of the Premier League. He scored a hat-trick.
“Kevin De Bruyne in the first game at our place against Man City. When Riyad Mahrez was at Leicester, he was unbelievable as well. Special mention to Kante.”
Arsenal rumour
The Daily Mall reported last month that City are open to selling Mahrez in the summer transfer window.
Arsenal are interested in signing the 30-year-old in the summer transfer window.
Brilliant signing for Arsenal
Phillips including Mahrez among the hardest players he has faced shows just how good the 30-year-old is.
After all, the Leeds star is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.
Just because City are willing to listen to offers for the winger does not mean that he is going downhill.
Of course, there will be doubts whether Arsenal will be able to afford the transfer fee and the salary.
But, there is no doubt that Mahrez would make the Gunners better and more potent.
The Algerian is quick, scores goals and creates chances.
The 30-year-old scored nine goals and gave six assists in the Premier League this past season.
Mahrez also made four starts and two substitute appearances in the Champions League.
The Algerian scored 11 goals and gave nine assists in 21 Premier League starts for City in 2019-20.
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