Mahrez breaks Drogba’s record in Man City defeat of Liverpool

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez became the African player with the most Premier League assists in a 4-1 win over Liverpool on Saturday sending into the archives the previous record of Didier Drogba.

The Algeria international set up City's second goal with a well-placed first-time cross for Kevin De Bruyne, who fired home into an empty net after Allison dived early.

It was his 56th assist in the top tier, moving him past the previous record holder Drogba. 

The 32-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career already in that time, winning four league titles, three League Cups and an FA Cup.

He joined Leicester when they were in the Championship for just £450,000 in 2014, and went on to play a key role in their remarkable Premier League win two years later, picking up 17 goals and 11 assists in the campaign.

Mahrez left the Foxes to join City for £60 million in 2018 after picking up 28 league assists, exactly half his full tally to date, and 42 goals for the club.

While some felt his opportunities may have been limited at the Etihad, the winger has thrived under Pep Guardiola and played 135 league games, picking up 43 goals and another 28 assists.

He does remain a long way off another creative star in the City ranks, as De Bruyne sits fifth in the all-time rankings with 99.

Beating a rival by such a margin means the Cityzens remain ahead of the Gunners on goal difference., although Mikel Arteta's side did beat Leeds to re-establish their eight point lead having played an extra game.

Another positive for Guardiola will be the performance of Julian Alvarez, who was widely praised after scoring his side's first goal, and looked a solid option up front in the absence of Erling Haaland.

City will next be in action when they face bottom-place Southampton next Saturday.