Pep Guardiola's last-minute decision to bench Kevin De Bruyne for the Real Madrid clash left fans puzzled and curious.
Real Madrid and Man City’s Thrilling Champions League Encounter
In a thrilling Champions League match between Real Madrid and Manchester City at the Bernabeu on Tuesday night, the absence of Kevin De Bruyne from the Premier League club’s starting lineup raised eyebrows even before kickoff.
De Bruyne's Recent Form and Last-Minute Replacement
De Bruyne, who had showcased brilliant form against Crystal Palace over the weekend with two goals and an assist in a 4-2 victory for Manchester City, found himself unexpectedly benched. His season had been marred by a significant injury, and it was only in the last match that he appeared to have regained his usual self.
Mateo Kovacic was hurriedly called up to replace De Bruyne in the starting lineup, while the Belgian midfielder remained on the bench for Man City.
Guardiola's Explanation
Guardiola addressed the surprise substitution before the match, stating via talkSPORT, “He feels unwell... We made a meeting, he was ready, and when we arrived, in the locker room he started to vomit and he said: ‘I’m not ready’.”
Guardiola's revelation shed light on De Bruyne's sudden absence from the starting lineup, highlighting unforeseen health issues that prevented him from taking the field against Real Madrid.
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