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The forward played a phenomenal role as City booked their FA Cup final ticket on June 3 and will play either Manchester United or Brighton.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that Riyad Mahrez is always grumpy when he does not play.
Mahrez was City’s hero as he scored three times – to eliminate Championship side Sheffield United on Saturday at the semi-final - and propelled his side to the FA Cup final.
His first goal came from the spot after Daniel Jebbison fouled Bernado Silva. The Algerian took advantage of a disorganized Sheffield United defense to score the second just after the hour.
He completed his hattrick when he slotted home Jack Grealish’s pass six minutes after the hour mark. His hattrick is the first in a semi-final in this competition since Alex Dawson achieved the feat for Manchester United in 1958 against Fulham.
"He is always grumpy with me when he doesn't play all the time, he makes me notice how grumpy he feels. Today [Saturday], no," Guardiola said after the match, as per BBC Sport.
"He is an exceptional player, a big stage player, and has the mentality to score the goal.
"The composure for the penalty was important to go in after the first half at 1-0, and the second and third goal was brilliant."
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20:55 - 22.04.2023
FA CUP Mahrez keeps Manchester City treble dream alive with FA Cup hattrick
City took a giant step closer to the treble after convincingly beating Sheffield United on Saturday.
Guardiola went on to laud the Algerian for what they have achieved while working together at the Etihad.
"I am so satisfied with Riyad, he has given many, many things in these years and hopefully more in the future," he added.
"We have known each other for many years, I know I have lost the battle to make him understand how important the group is.
"It is important when he plays at that level, and when he does, everything is fine."
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17:20 - 21.04.2023
PREMIER LEAGUE Guardiola worried about Arsenal? Manchester City manager responds
The Cityzens and the Gunners will soon face off in what is seen as a the Premier League race decider.
Given that City had lost four of their last five matches at Wembley, Mahrez’s effort was historic for the Citizens in their pursuit of a treble.
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