PEP GUARDIOLA left his Manchester City stars shocked as he CONGRATULATED them for their performance against Everton, according to reports.
The 4-0 rout was the Spaniard’s worst ever defeat as a manager and left pundits lining up to slam his team.
But The Mirror claims Guardiola refused to criticise the display – telling City they played well despite an error-strewn performance.
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Players were apparently left wondering if their boss was attempting reverse psychology following the surprising team talk.
City are in danger of missing out on the top four after three defeats in seven league matches.
And whatever happens Guardiola is set to launch a major overhaul of his ageing squad in the summer.
The first priority will be a new goalkeeper with Willy Caballero heading for an exit and Joe Hart unlikely to reclaim his spot.
Claudio Bravo has been partly to blame for the dire run of form - conceding goals from 14 of the last 22 shots he has faced, including four from four against Everton.
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Defence is another major issue, with John Stones struggling since his £50millin switch and Guardiola's other options failing to gel.
City's defensive line was pulled all over the place against the Toffees in an incredibly disjointed performance under a coach who refuses to coach tackling.
Guardiola has been linked with a £100million move for Barcelona contract rebel Lionel Messi to bolster his options up front.
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