The football world is buzzing after Pep Guardiola delivered a rare **public critique of Chelsea’s squad management**, openly questioning why one of their most talented young players continues to be left on the bench.
## Guardiola’s Message
After Chelsea’s narrow **2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Lincoln City**, Guardiola didn’t hold back:
> “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.”
The remark wasn’t just praise — it sounded like a **warning**.
## Lincoln Scare Highlights Chelsea’s Hidden Gem
Lincoln stunned Chelsea when Robert Street gave the hosts a shock half-time lead. But it was the introduction and brilliance of the **underused Chelsea star** that completely flipped the script.
His energy, creativity, and flair **sparked the comeback**, directly influencing the moves that led to goals from **Tyrique George** and **Facundo Buonanotte**.
Guardiola, who was reportedly watching closely, looked convinced: this isn’t a squad player — this is a **future Premier League starter**.
## More Than Just Praise?
Guardiola rarely comments on rival clubs’ internal matters. That’s why many believe this was a **transfer signal**.
City have a history of exploiting rival hesitation:
* Raheem Sterling from Liverpool
* Kevin De Bruyne’s Chelsea exit City legend
* Even young prospects City swooped in for when others stalled.
Chelsea’s own history of mismanaging talent looms large here. Fans immediately drew comparisons:
> “This is another De Bruyne situation waiting to happen.”
## Fan Reactions
* **Chelsea fans**: “How is he not starting games for us? Absolute madness.”
* **City fans**: “Pep knows ball — bring him to the Etihad!”
Social media lit up with highlight reels of the player’s dazzling Carabao Cup display.
## What’s Next?
Enzo Maresca is already under pressure with Chelsea’s injury crisis, and Guardiola’s words just turned the spotlight brighter.
If the Blues continue to sideline him, **January could get very interesting** — and Man City might just pounce.
For now, one thing is clear: **Pep has lit the fuse.**
