Pep Guardiola criticises Kevin De Bruyne after Man City thrash Real Madrid
Pep Guardiola acknowledges his discontent with Kevin De Bruyne’s inability to maintain ball possession during Manchester City’s 4-0 triumph over Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday.
Manchester City showcased a commanding performance at the Etihad Stadium, securing their spot in the Champions League final, scheduled for June 10 against Inter.
Bernardo Silva netted two goals in the first half, granting City a well-deserved advantage. Towards the end, Manuel Akanji and Julian Alvarez added two more goals, sealing the victory for Guardiola’s team.
Madrid displayed improvement after halftime, although they still posed minimal threat to City. An anxious Guardiola was observed losing his composure with De Bruyne on the sideline when the Belgian lost possession of the ball during one instance in the second half.
Television cameras captured Guardiola instructing De Bruyne to pass the ball, and City’s key player responded by shouting, “Shut up, shut up!” at his manager after losing possession.
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“At 2-0 we rushed a lot,’ Guardiola told Spanish broadcaster Movistar after the City’s win.
“Right after the break [Ilkay] Gundogan lost a ball, Kevin made three transitions that weren’t necessary and we rushed a lot when we had to do the opposite, sink them and turn them, sink them and turn them.
“But it’s normal. It gets close, you rush, and it has cost us more, although in general we have had an extraordinary game.”
Guardiola also commended Rodri for his exceptional performance once again in the heart of City’s midfield.
“What a year,” Guardiola said.
“Everyone is talking about Haaland, but without him [Rodri] this would not have been possible.
“He has become the best midfielder we have, it has been an imperial year. We are very happy, very much.”
Pep Guardiola criticises Kevin De Bruyne after Man City thrash Real Madrid
