Wayne Rooney has criticised Manchester City for holding a guard of honour for departing players Bernardo Silva and John Stones during their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, arguing the tribute should have been saved for after the match.
The former Manchester United striker, speaking on Match of the Day, said: “It’s incredible. I’ve seen a few things this season and it just makes me sad that some of these things are happening in football. Bernardo Silva and John Stones have been incredible for Manchester City and they deserve it, but do it after the game.”
City gave both players an emotional farewell as they were substituted in the second half, with Pep Guardiola seen in tears on the sidelines. The match also marked Guardiola’s final game in charge after announcing his departure last week.
Alan Shearer, also a pundit on the show, echoed Rooney’s sentiments, saying: “I was surprised that Villa agreed to doing it, particularly with so long left. I mean, with half an hour, just over half an hour to go with one of the substitutions, so I’m in Wayne’s camp.”
City suffered a 2-1 defeat, with Antoine Semenyo scoring before an Ollie Watkins brace secured the win for Villa. Silva and Stones both started the match before being substituted to standing ovations and guards of honour from both sets of players.
Guardiola, who won 20 trophies during his decade at City, said in his farewell speech: “Let me have a little break… I never could have imagined the amount of love. It is a tremendous honour to be your manager.”
