Kevin De Bruyne was fuming with Pep Guardiola after Man City boss' surprise decision vs Liverpool

Kevin De Bruyne was fuming with Pep Guardiola after the Manchester City manager's surprise decision against Liverpool.

Liverpool and City clashed at Anfield on Sunday in a match that could have huge implications in the Premier League title race.

City took a first half lead through the unlikely source of John Stones.

The defender stabbed home at the near post following Kevin De Bruyne's corner, a well-rehearsed routine that involved Nathan Ake blocking Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister.

City's lead lasted just five minute of the second half though, as Mac Allister converted from the penalty spot after City goalkeeper Ederson tripped Darwin Nunez.

City looked at their very best in the opening 20 minutes of the match, but the control and composure of Pep Guardiola's side was gradually eroded.

City looked vulnerable for large parts of the second half, prompting Guardiola to take drastic action with just over 20 minutes left to play.

Like a few City players, Kevin De Bruyne was having little impact in the second half and kept losing possession whenever City managed to regain it.

Guardiola decided to withdraw him in favour of Mateo Kovacic, and it's fair to say that the Belgian star was not happy about it.

De Bruyne complained to his manager as he left the field, and exchanged words with assistant coach Juanma Lillo before taking his place on the bench.

A few minutes later Guardiola went to talk to his star midfielder, but the 32-year-old was still clearly frustrated about being taken off.

On X, City fans were divided over Guardiola's decision.

"Nice one took off our best player," one fan complained, while another asked "Why did he sub him off though."

Other understood the unusual move, like the fan who argued, "De Bruyne played awful so he had to go."