Riyad Mahrez has revealed how last year’s Champions League defeat to Lyon has fuelled Manchester City this season ahead of their semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain.
The Algerian winger admits the quarter-final defeat to Lyon was the “biggest disappointment in my career”.
But Pep Guardiola’s side put last year’s heartache behind them with victory over Borussia Dortmund, with Mahrez now driven to finally take the opportunity to reach a first Champions League final.
“It was a big disappointment last season when we lost in Champions League,” Mahrez said ahead of Wednesday’s game in Paris.
“The problem is when we lost we went straight on holiday so you are very disappointed and then you just have to think about next season and refocus for next season but the seasons before when we lost we had to stay focused to win the league.
“For me last season was the biggest disappointment in my career to not go to the semi-final to not beat Lyon.
“This season we were so determined to go through, obviously the last seasons as well but this season we had the experience of last season and I think we were much better.”
Mahrez, who has 11 goals and six assists this season in all competitions, attributed confidence from playing regularly to his fine form.
“I think it is when you play more,” Mahrez admitted. “When you more decisive the confidence is high and when the confidence is high it is easier for you to perform.
“I think it is all about the confidence. I am very good, very happy so when I am like this it is easier for me to perform and I perform better.”
