Pep Guardiola told Manchester United supporters that they shouldn’t be scared about Man City emulating their historic treble after his team reached the FA Cup final on Saturday.
Mahrez ended Sheffield United’s hopes of an upset with a clinical display of finishing that saw him leave Wembley with the match ball.
City now have a great opportunity of emulating United’s legends of 1999 by completing a clean sweep of the FA Cup.
Man United face Brighton in the second semi-final – and could be faced with the prospect of meeting Man City.
And Guardiola said: “They (United) don’t have to be scared. We are neighbours – and neighbours are always nice to each other. We are still far away (from the Treble).”
City fans were quick to react to the comments on Twitter, where @PRETTYMAMl_ wrote: “Josep trolling again.” Meanwhile, @MUHARABI10 added: “lol, he’s trolling so hard.”
Mahrez has been struggling for minutes as City have reeled in Premier League leaders Arsenal and booked a Champions League semi-final clash with Real Madrid.
But he made his point after taking over penalty duties from Erling Haaland to put City ahead from the spot just before the break.
Guardiola, whose team are the first since Everton in 1966 to reach the final without conceding any goal, said: “Riyad plays good in decisive games and non-decisive games.
“He just loves football. He has an amateur spirit. He doesn’t come here, do his job and just go home. He loves it. Riyad is grumpy with me when he doesn’t play – and he makes me notice when he’s grumpy.
“That’s why I am so happy for him now. He has given so much to City – and hopefully he will continue in the future.”
Guardiola added: “We lacked a little bit, but in general it was a really good performance. We saw a vibe in the locker room. To be in the final is double satisfaction.
“What I’m impressed by with this club is everyone – hierarchy, backroom staff – is winning titles, winning titles and we are still there. That is what makes me proud the most as a manager.”
