Pep Guardiola could axe Sergio Aguero and David Silva for Sunday’s home game with Arsenal after reading them both the riot act. The Manchester City chief is seriously considering dropping his ‘go-to’ pair following their own part in Monday night’s shock 2-1 defeat away at strugglers Newcastle United.
Guardiola was understandably furious with the poor display from his entire team and kept them locked inside the dressing room at St. James’ Park for more than half an hour after the final whistle, with various raised voices heard. It’s understood the Catalan was frustrated by Aguero’s overall contribution in front of goal, despite the City striker giving his side the lead after just 24 seconds.
There are also believed to be increasing concerns 33-year-old Silva hasn’t looked his normal self since being sidelined with an injury at the start of the new year.
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However, Liverpool’s surprise 1-1 draw with Leicester City at Anfield 24 hours later has opened the door slightly again in the Premier League title race, with City sitting five points behind Jurgen Klopp’s leaders rather than seven.
Guardiola knows a win against the Gunners would at least put some pressure back on the Merseysiders, by closing the gap to just two points, who don’t play until the following night away at West Ham United.
In form striker Gabriel Jesus and midfielder Bernardo Silva made way on Tyneside, with both men now back in contention under Guardiola to be returned to the starting line-up against Arsenal.
