De Bruyne put on the bench: Guardiola is explained without detour!

Pep Guardiola once again rocked football certainties by leaving Kevin de Bruyne on the bench during the shock against Real Madrid in the Champions League (1-3 defeat), last Wednesday. An assumed choice, despite the full ability of the Belgian, which questions the status of the maestro within City.

“A technical decision”, the Guardiola Massage

Asked about the absence of de Bruyne holders, Guardiola swept away any ambiguity : “Kevin did not start the match against Real Madrid because I made a technical decision. He was not injured. ” A cold statement, confirming that the 33 -year -old is no longer essential in the departure bibs. Worse: even as a replacement, the former Taulier was not used, stressing the audacity – or the distrust – of his coach.

From Bruyne, a luxury that has become superfluous?

If Guardiola tempers (“of course he can still play the big matches … He played against Madrid on the outward journey”), the message is clear: City evolves. The Catalan technician, followed by radical tactical blows (we remember Sergio Agüero or Joe Hart dismissed in full glory), seems to prioritize a collective dynamic where Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and even the emergence Rico Lewis capture the light. De Bruyne, he now embodies a “finishing” weapon rather than a “starter”.

A guardiola logic in all its brutality

The genius of Guardiola resides in between in his absence of sentimentalism. De Bruyne, despite his 127 goals and 210 assists in the Skyblues jersey, must deal with less enduring physique and fierce competition. “Decisions … my decisions”, recalls Pep, in reference to his philosophy: no player is above the system. A mantra that has forged its success, but which also exposes its limits when alchemy vacillates.

What future for the Belgian maestro?

It remains to be seen how de Bruyne lives this relegation. He, the ultra-completor, has always displayed flawless loyalty to Guardiola. But a few months before the end of his contract (2025), the rumors of a departure intensify. Saudi Arabia, MLS or a last European challenge could seduce an artist who does not intend to end his career in Joker.

Between Guardiola, uncompromising architect, and Bruyne, legend in search of respect, cohabitation could turn to the silent duel. Unless the Belgian proves, yet another time that it remains irreplaceable. But in City, under the Guardiola era, no one is immortal.