Ibrahim Maza’s World Cup debut analysed as Man City keep tabs on Algeria star
Manchester City may have been keeping a close eye on the performance of Ibrahim Maza during Algeria’s opening World Cup match against Argentina.
Florian Plettenberg reported that Man City have been “closely monitoring” Maza at Bayer Leverkusen.
It was a breakthrough campaign in the Bundesliga for Maza this season, who contributed three goals and four assists in 20 starts, whilst also making 12 appearances in the Champions League.
Man City look set to lose Savinho this summer, with Tottenham wanting to agree a £60million deal to sign the winger, whilst Jack Grealish is expected to join Everton on a permanent basis.
Striker Omar Marmoush has also been linked with a departure this summer, meaning Man City are in the market for a new forward.
It is set to be a summer of change at the Etihad following manager Pep Guardiola’s departure, with Enzo Maresca expected to take over from the Spaniard.
Ibrahim Maza and Algeria struggle to contain Lionel Messi
It was a tough World Cup debut for Maza as his Algeria side took on reigning champions Argentina in their opening group stage game.
Lionel Messi stole the show with a hat-trick, but Maza showed a glimpse of his potential, which has attracted attention from the likes of Man City.
Successfully completing 85 per cent of his passes, including all of his long passes, Maza made 10 progressive carries and had one blocked shot on goal.
Winning all of his aerial duels, and four of his 10 ground duels, Maza’s defensive abilities were certainly put to the test against Argentina.
Algeria failed to have a shot on target throughout the match, and Maza will hope he can have greater influence in their attacking play when they face Jordan and Austria in their next two matches.
Meanwhile, Man City have been linked with a move for Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye, and sources have told Football Insider that the Toffees are planning talks with the 26-year-old after the World Cup.
Man City faced with Iliman Ndiaye decision
A Premier League proven player, Ndiaye should be able to hit the ground running at Man City, whilst Maza could be seen as a star for the future.
However, with three years left on his current deal on Merseyside, Everton will not be selling Ndiaye cheaply this summer.
Man City are not the only club interested in the Senegal international, with Man United, Chelsea and Arsenal also admirers.
Ndiaye contributed six goals and three assists in the Premier League this season, and has revealed that he wants to play in the Champions League in the future, which Man City would be able to offer.