Gabriel Agbonlahor, a former Aston Villa captain, believes Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola made a mistake by taking off his talisman, Kevin De Bruyne, during his team’s 3-1 loss to Real Madrid in the Champions League semi-final second leg on Wednesday.
KemiFilani reports that Guardiola replaced De Bruyne in the 72nd minute of Manchester City’s match against Real Madrid, with Ilkay Gundogan taking his place.
However, Rodrygo’s brace and Karim Benzema’s goal sealed Real Madrid’s victory against Guardiola’s team, advancing them to the Champions League final, where they will meet Liverpool.
However, Agbonlahor feels De Bruyne should have stayed on in case he was needed.
Speaking on talkSPORT on Thursday morning, Agbonlahor said: “When I look back at it, I just think yes, you are winning 1-0, but Real Madrid have done it [before].
“They have done it against PSG, they have done it against Chelsea, do not bring off your talisman Kevin De Bruyne. 72nd minute, do not bring him off.”