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

Pep Guardiola has expressed his bewilderment over Manchester United’s management of one of their most promising players, Rasmus Højlund. Following Manchester City’s recent impressive performance, Guardiola openly questioned United manager Ruben Amorim’s decision to keep Højlund on the bench. The City boss found it difficult to comprehend why a player of such potential and proven ability was not being utilized to his full capacity. In a pointed remark, Guardiola even suggested that if United were unwilling to make the most of Højlund, City would gladly welcome him and unlock his potential.
Guardiola’s remarks came after United’s lackluster 1-1 draw against Fulham, a match where their attacking play appeared uninspired. Many fans and analysts were left puzzled by Amorim’s tactical choices, with the absence of Højlund raising further questions. Despite the hefty investment United made to secure the Danish forward, Amorim opted for a different approach, choosing to keep him out of the starting lineup. Guardiola’s public interest in Højlund has intensified discussions about the striker’s future, emphasizing the belief that his talents could flourish under different management.
Højlund, who arrived at Old Trafford with high expectations following his €70 million transfer, has shown glimpses of brilliance but has yet to establish himself as a consistent force in the Premier League. Amorim’s decision to bench him is seen by some as a strategic move to push the young striker to improve, while others view it as a misstep that could cost United dearly. Guardiola’s statement has fueled speculation that Manchester City might be eyeing the opportunity to swoop in should Højlund’s frustrations grow.
The rivalry between Manchester United and Manchester City has only been heightened by Guardiola’s comments. Historically, City has seized opportunities to capitalize on United’s mismanagement of talent, and the prospect of Højlund making a controversial switch would add another chapter to their fierce competition. For United, the pressure is mounting to handle the situation carefully and avoid losing a highly regarded asset to their city rivals.
Højlund’s raw talent and attacking instincts have never been in doubt. His speed, movement, and goal-scoring ability made him a standout in Denmark before his move to United. However, adapting to the demands of the Premier League has been a challenge, and his inconsistent form has led to questions about whether Amorim’s approach is the right one. Guardiola, known for nurturing talent and maximizing player potential, appears convinced that Højlund could thrive in City’s dynamic and fluid attacking system.
With the January transfer window approaching, the stakes are higher than ever. Amorim faces a crucial decision—whether to persist with his tough-love strategy or reintegrate Højlund into the squad and allow him the opportunity to shine. Should Højlund remain sidelined, the possibility of him seeking opportunities elsewhere cannot be ruled out, and City’s interest could prove too tempting for the young forward to ignore.
United’s response to this growing speculation will be closely watched. Fans are eager to see whether Amorim will trust Højlund to lead the line or risk losing him to their biggest rivals. Guardiola’s words have undoubtedly added pressure on United’s management, reigniting tensions between the two clubs and setting the stage for potential transfer drama.
As the situation unfolds, it is clear that Guardiola’s admiration for Højlund has sparked renewed intrigue in the ongoing Manchester rivalry. Whether United can keep hold of their prized striker or if City will make a bold move remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the battle between the two clubs is far from over.