Man City winger Riyad Mahrez makes confident Champions League claim

Manchester City will take an advantage into their Champions League clash with Real Madrid if and when the competition returns

Riyad Mahrez has seen enough to believe this could be Manchester City's year in the Champions League.

The Blues have failed to make an impact on the competition, with one semi-final appearance in 2016 their best effort in eight consecutive attempts. However, Pep Guardiola's side are well-placed to knock out a competition giant, holding a 2-1 lead over Real Madrid in their last-16 clash ahead of what should be a second leg with home advantage.

As with other tournaments across Europe, the Champions League has had to make contingency arrangements given the disruption to sport caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The latest plans are to complete this year's campaign in August although the full details have not been confirmed. With City's hearing at the Court of Arbitration for Sport scheduled for June 8-10, the club could find out if they are barred from participating in future Champions Leagues before they resume the 2019/20 tournament.

If and when the competition can be played out, Mahrez reckons the team have to be considered a contender to claim the main prize.

“I think it is a good time to win the Champions League. We have the team, we have the manager, we have everything, so it is a good time," he said.

"I don’t know if we are the best, but we are good enough to win it. The Champions League is difficult, everyone wants to win it, so it is going to be a big battle.”