Main reason why Pep Guardiola susbstituted Kevin De Bruyne during Manchester City 2-1 win against Aston Villa

On Tuesday, Manchester City secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Aston Villa with the assistance of Kevin De Bruyne.

The 94th minute goal scored by Matheus Nunes propelled Manchester City to third place in the Premier League, while simultaneously relegating Aston Villa to seventh. This was a critical juncture in the competition for UEFA Champions League qualification.

Kevin De Bruyne once again demonstrated his exceptional skills on a critical evening for the Citizens, winning four of his seven duels against the Villans and registering six crucial passes and four effective crosses.

After being replaced by Manuel Akanji in the 96th minute, the Belgium international made an intriguing – and potentially significant – decision.

Kevin DeBruyne circumvents the dugout.

It is possible that the individual, who will turn 34 in June, was simply exhausted after 96 minutes of intensive Premier League action. However, we also believe that it could have been a display of frustration towards Guardiola.

De Bruyne recently disclosed his disappointment and astonishment regarding the decision to terminate his contract this summer in lieu of offering him a new one, stating, “There was a slight degree of surprise.” The club made a decision, and I did not receive any offers from them throughout the year. It is evident that I was somewhat taken aback; however, I must concede that it is the case. In all honesty, I continue to believe that I am capable of performing at the level I am currently demonstrating. However, I recognise that clubs are required to make judgements. It was not pleasant. My family was absent. They were on vacation, so it was somewhat peculiar; however, it is what it is.

It appears that the individual born in Drongen harbours some frustration towards Guardiola and the members of the Etihad Stadium boardroom following the controversial verdict. Consequently, his decision to refrain from entering the dugout may be interpreted as a reflection of his current emotions, which include feelings of isolation and betrayal by his current employers.

The No.17 of Manchester City, who grew up supporting the Reds, has already declined to rule out a Premier League stay upon his departure from the Etihad Stadium.

In the event that a transfer to a domestic rival occurs, it is conceivable that De Bruyne will leverage his frustration as a means of proving Manchester City incorrect. This could potentially resurface next season and prove to be a costly mistake for Guardiola.
After Pep Guardiola replaced the Belgian, he chose to sit on the advertising hoardings, which were located on the opposite side of the field from the dugout. From there, he could be observed instructing his teammates.