Kevin De Bruyne subbed: Why did Pep Guardiola replace the midfielder in the FA Cup final?

Kevin De Bruyne subbed was a controversial decision by Pep Guardiola as Manchester City suffered a 2-1 defeat in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. The Belgian didn’t have the best outing. With City trailing by two goals, he was hooked off in the 56th minute.

The Belgian was taken off with his side trailing by two goals. De Bruyne is one of City’s most clutch players. He comes up with answers when others fail to do so. However, he couldn’t impact proceedings against Manchester United.

De Bruyne has been phenomenal since joining City. His performances in big finals, though, have come under scrutiny. The FA Cup final showing will add further fuel to the fire of criticism.

Kevin De Bruyne subbed: how did the Belgian perform in the FA Cup final?

Kevin De Bruyne made only 20 passes during the FA Cup final against Manchester United. He attempted 28 passes during the game. De Bruyne failed to make any key passes or crosses. He also lost possession of the ball a massive 18 times. Taking off the Belgian was perhaps a correct decision from Pep Guardiola.

He failed to make an impact while Manchester United stars ran rings around him. Bruno Fernandes was phenomenal and played a stunning pass for Kobbie Mainoo’s goal. Alejandro Garnacho was also influential. Apart from De Bruyne, Julian Alvarez, Phil Foden, or Erling Haaland failed to make an impact.

The defeat marked Pep Guardiola’s first ever defeat in a domestic cup final. Erik ten Hag and his team managed to do the unthinkable.

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