Man City close gap at top in Premier League to five points

Algerian winger Riyad Mahrez climbed off the bench to fire Manchester City to a 1-0 win at Chelsea on Thursday and cut the deficit to Premier League leaders Arsenal back to five points.

FINAL | El 2023 comienza con una victoria 🤩

🦁 0-1 🔵 #MCFCEspañol pic.twitter.com/A5yQ1LsoI9

— Manchester City (@ManCityES) January 5, 2023

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City, held to a draw by lowly Everton on New Year’s Eve, were facing more frustration against an injury-hit yet enterprising Chelsea side at Stamford Bridge.

But less than three minutes after coming on as substitutes with an hour gone, Jack Grealish fed Mahrez with an inch-perfect assist for a tap-in at the far post, which secured City’s third straight home victory.

The winner also inflicted another defeat on Chelsea, still looking unconvincing under Graham Potter, but who gave City plenty of problems, particularly in the first half despite a double injury blow.

Arsenal top the standings with 44 points, followed by Man City on 39. Chelsea are 10th with 25 points.

The Blues last tasted victory against Pep Guardiola’s men in the UEFA Champions League Final in 2021.