Manchester City fans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the inclusion of Bernardo Silva in the starting XI to face West Ham. The Cityzens are looking to bounce back from a disappointing outing in the UEFA Champions League against the struggling Hammers.

Pep Guardiola saw his side go down 3-0 to Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday and has made three changes to the XI that lost in Madrid. Despite his changes, the Spanish tactician has opted to retain experienced midfielder Bernardo Silva in the line-up against the relegation-threatened side.

Manchester City faithful are not in bed with Guardiola’s decision to keep faith in the Portugal international after their disappointing showing in midweek. A section of the fans have taken to X to call out the decision of the former Barcelona manager ahead of kick-off at the London Stadium.

One fan questioned the logic behind Bernardo Silva starting, asking if Guardiola had learnt nothing from his recent showings.

Another fan was left frustrated by the inclusion of the Portugal international in the XI for the game.

A fan called for the former AS Monaco man to leave the club, complaining of Nico Gonzalez’s limited role due to his presence.

Another fan pleaded for the 31-year-old to be rested for the team.

Bernardo Silva has been a regular for Manchester City this season, as he has been since his arrival at the club in 2017. He has scored once and provided four assists in 29 Premier League appearances for the Cityzens this season, playing in every one of their games so far.

Manchester City star returns to squad after lengthy layoff

Manchester City have received a boost ahead of facing West Ham as midfielder Mateo Kovacic has been named among the substitutes. The Croatia international is in line to make his first appearance for the club since October, having been out injured.

Kovacic last played for the Cityzens in their UEFA Champions League league phase win over Villarreal in October, coming on as a substitute. He had appeared just once for the club before that game, also as a substitute in a 2-0 win over Everton just days prior.

Pep Guardiola will be pleased to have Kovacic back fit for the final stretch of the season as his side continues to compete on four fronts. The 31-year-old will hope to hit the ground running if called upon by his manager at any point.