You made wrong decision against Madrid by bringing off your talisman – Agbonlahor criticizes Guardiola

Former Aston Villa captain, Gabriel Agbonlahor, believes Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola, made a wrong decision by bringing off his talisman, Kevin De Bruyne, during his side’s Champions League semi-final second-leg 3-1 defeat against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Guardiola substituted De Bruyne in the 72nd minute during Man City’s tie with Real Madrid, with Ilkay Gundogan replacing the Belgium international.

However, Rodrygo’s brace and Karim Benzema’s strike ensured Real Madrid defeated Guardiola’s side to qualify for the Champions League final, where they will face Liverpool.

But Agbonlahor believes De Bruyne should have remained on just 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.”