Manchester City missed a golden opportunity to climb back into the Premier League’s top four after being held to a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium.

However, the game took an unexpected turn when Bernardo Silva, who had only been on the pitch for 18 minutes, was substituted for Phil Foden a decision that left fans and pundits scratching their heads.

Guardiola’s Cryptic Response on Silva’s Early Exit

Silva, who came on shortly before the hour mark, showed no visible signs of injury when he was withdrawn.

When asked about the sudden change, Pep Guardiola offered little clarity in his post-match interview.

“I don’t know, I didn’t speak to the doctors,” Guardiola told Match of the Day when questioned about a potential injury. “Bernardo is so strong.”

With no conclusive explanation, speculation continues regarding whether the substitution was tactical, fitness-related, or due to a minor issue unnoticed by spectators.

City Let Crucial Points Slip

Going into the match, Manchester City knew a victory would push them back into the top four. They started well, with Erling Haaland converting a penalty to give them the lead.

However, Brighton hit back through Pervis Estupiñán, leveling the score. Omar Marmoush then restored City’s advantage, only for an unfortunate Abdukodir Khusanov own goal to secure a draw for the visitors.

Despite the result, Guardiola remained positive about his team’s performance:

“It was a good game. A tight game—I know how difficult this process is. The players gave everything. We take the point and keep going.”

He also praised his squad’s effort, particularly the younger players and defenders, but admitted City fell just short of securing the win.

Brighton’s Boss Disappointed Despite Strong Performance

Brighton, aiming to complete a league double over City after their 2-1 win at the Amex in November, were left frustrated by the draw. Manager Fabian Hürzeler believed his side deserved more:

“We gave away goals in a very cheap way, and we have to improve. The fact that we came back twice and had big opportunities to win is a positive sign. We showed our identity—that’s how we want to play.”

Despite acknowledging the team’s strong display, Hürzeler was dissatisfied with the final result:

“It is very clear to me that we should have left this pitch as winners. Sometimes football is like this.”

Chelsea Benefit as City Drop Points

The draw at the Etihad Stadium ensures that Chelsea will finish the weekend in fourth place. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest remains in third after their 4-2 win over Ipswich, meaning Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday won’t affect their position just yet.

As City continues to navigate a competitive season, questions remain about Guardiola’s Bernardo Silva decision, but for now, their focus will be on bouncing back in their next fixture.

After six unforgettable years at Newcastle United, Miguel Almirón bid an emotional farewell in January, returning to Atlanta United.

The Paraguayan midfielder left a lasting legacy, scoring 30 goals in 223 appearances, and playing a key role in Newcastle’s return to the Champions League after two decades.

His departure was bittersweet, with teary-eyed goodbyes at Newcastle’s training ground. Now, with Jacob Murphy left as the team’s primary right-wing option, Almirón’s absence is being felt.

However, before leaving, he helped Newcastle reach the Carabao Cup final, playing a crucial role in their semi-final victory over Arsenal at the Emirates.

Eddie Howe vs. Steve Bruce: A Game-Changing Approach

Almirón has credited Eddie Howe with transforming both his game and Newcastle’s fortunes.

Under previous manager Steve Bruce, Newcastle’s lackluster playing style meant Almirón struggled to make an impact.

Despite early promise under Rafa Benítez, who signed him for £21 million, Almirón found it difficult to shine under Bruce’s leadership.

That all changed when Howe arrived in 2021. The former Bournemouth boss didn’t just elevate Newcastle from a relegation battle he revamped the squad’s mentality and helped them surge up the Premier League table, securing a Champions League spot in his first full season.

Reflecting on his time under both managers, Almirón told The Athletic:

“My first year in England was tough. I think I only scored one goal. It changed me as a person it was really hard. But I kept working and improving. Football is about patience and hard work. It’s about moments.”

He went on to highlight Howe’s impact:

“When Eddie arrived, everything changed. He transformed our mentality. The club brought in top-quality players, which helped, but there was also more ambition. He worked with me individually, helped me improve my finishing, and pushed me to be better whether I was playing on the left, the right, or centrally.”

That shift in mentality led to his best season at Newcastle in 2022/23, where he scored 11 goals in the Premier League.

Under Howe’s guidance, he reached his peak, contributing to Newcastle’s return to European competition and their Carabao Cup final appearance against Manchester United.

Almirón’s New Chapter at Atlanta United

Since rejoining Atlanta United, Almirón has already made history. In his first game, he registered an assist in a 3-2 win over Montreal, making him one of only four players in club history with 50 goal involvements.

However, Atlanta struggled in their next two matches, suffering a 2-0 loss to Charlotte FC a club he nearly joined in January and drawing 0-0 with the New York Red Bulls.

Despite moving on, Almirón remains grateful for his time at Newcastle. Atlanta fans welcomed him back with black-and-white flags, honoring his achievements in England.

Reflecting on his Newcastle career, he singled out his goal in the 4-1 victory over PSG as his most cherished moment in a Magpies shirt.

Though he’s now back in the MLS, Almirón’s heart still holds a special place for Newcastle Unitedand for the genius of Eddie Howe, who helped him reach his full potential.

With the summer transfer window approaching, clubs are already strategizing their transfer moves to strengthen their squads for the next season.

One team with a crucial summer ahead is Arsenal, as they continue their push to end their Premier League title drought.

The Gunners are expected to make several major signings, including a striker, midfielder, and winger.

While Alexander Isak is a top target to lead the attack, Arsenal have also made progress in midfield, with Martin Zubimendi reportedly agreeing personal terms for a summer transfer.

For the winger position, Arsenal have been heavily linked with Nico Williams, with reports suggesting the Athletic Club star is close to joining the North London side. However, a new twist in the saga has emerged.

Bayern Munich Enter the Race

Just as Arsenal seemed to be leading the race for Williams, Bayern Munich have now entered the picture.

According to Christian Falk, the German champions are looking to sign the Spanish international as they seek to bolster their attacking options.

With Bayern actively searching for a new winger, Williams has emerged as a prime target.

Interestingly, Bayern’s Leroy Sané has been linked with a move to Arsenal, potentially setting up a transfer domino effect.

This isn’t the first time Arsenal and Bayern have gone head-to-head in the transfer market. Bayern previously tried to sign Declan Rice before he chose Arsenal, while the Gunners were interested in João Palhinha, who ended up moving to Bavaria.

Nico Williams’ Mixed Season

Despite being a highly sought-after player, Williams’ current season has not been his best. After an impressive Euro 2024 campaign, his form has dipped, and he has managed just four goals this season.

While Arsenal have been tracking Williams for some time, his inconsistency raises questions about whether he is the ideal signing. With a £50m price tag, Arsenal may reconsider their pursuit, as there are other attacking options available in the market.

Williams remains one of the most exciting prospects in the upcoming transfer window, and with Bayern now involved, the race for his signature could become even more competitive.