Manchester City Coach Pep Guardiola is openly questioning Chelsea decision to sideline a player who’s proven he’s one of their best.

Pep Guardiola Sends Clear Warning to Chelsea After Carabao Cup Heroics

The football world is buzzing after Pep Guardiola delivered a rare public critique of Chelsea’s squad management, openly questioning why one of their brightest stars continues to be benched.

Following Chelsea’s tense 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Lincoln City, Guardiola praised the player’s performance and sent a direct message to the Blues:

“After watching him today, I just can’t understand why they are benching him. If Chelsea don’t want him, let him come to Man City. We’ll show you the magic.”

Lincoln Scare Highlights Chelsea Talent

Chelsea fell behind at Sincil Bank after Robert Street gave Lincoln a shock lead before half-time. But the Blues turned the game around in the second half — led by the same underused player Guardiola singled out.

His energy, creativity, and technical flair shifted the momentum, helping to set up the attacks that resulted in Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte scoring in quick succession.

Guardiola, who was reportedly in attendance, appeared convinced that this was no squad player but a starter-in-waiting at the highest level.

A Subtle Transfer Signal?

Guardiola is not known for commenting on rival clubs’ internal issues, so many observers see his remarks as more than praise. City have a history of capitalising on rivals’ hesitation — from signing Raheem Sterling in his prime to developing emerging talents overlooked elsewhere.

Chelsea, meanwhile, have a reputation for stockpiling players but struggling to offer consistent opportunities, a habit that has seen stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah leave and flourish elsewhere. Guardiola’s comments may be a pointed reminder of that history.

Fan Reaction Splits

Chelsea supporters quickly took to social media to vent frustration:

• “How is he not starting games for us? Absolute madness.”
• “Pep is right, if we don’t value him, others will.”
• “This is another De Bruyne situation waiting to happen.”

City fans, meanwhile, embraced Guardiola’s words, posting highlight reels of the player’s Lincoln performance and urging the club to bring him to the Etihad.

What’s Next?

With Enzo Maresca under scrutiny for his rotation decisions amid Chelsea’s injury crisis, Guardiola’s comments add pressure. January could become very interesting if City decide to test Chelsea’s resolve with a bid.

For now, one thing is certain: Guardiola has lit the fuse. If Chelsea continue to overlook their own talent, Manchester City may be ready to pounce — just as they did when De Bruyne slipped away.