Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola marked his 100th Champions League game in charge of the club with a moment to forget, as Bayer Leverkusen secured a shock 2-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. The Bundesliga side’s disciplined display left City stunned, highlighting the risks of Guardiola’s bold squad rotation strategy.

Guardiola’s Rotation Gamble

Ahead of the match, Guardiola made a remarkable 10 changes from the side that lost to Newcastle on Saturday. While intended to manage player fatigue during a congested schedule, the decision backfired spectacularly. Key stars like Erling Haaland, Phil Foden, and Rayan Cherki began on the bench, only to be unable to rescue City after being introduced in the second half.

Guardiola admitted the gamble may have been too ambitious: “I always had the belief of the long season and everyone had to be involved, but maybe it was too much. They played not to make mistakes instead of doing what we had to do. I take full responsibility. We missed an incredible opportunity and now we need to fight in the next games.”

Leverkusen Take Advantage

Bayer Leverkusen, whose plane arrival in Manchester had been delayed due to luggage issues, capitalized on City’s unfamiliar lineup. Skipper Alejandro Grimaldo opened the scoring with a rasping strike, followed by Patrik Schick’s towering header in the second half to seal the upset.

Leverkusen manager Kasper Hjulmand praised his side’s character and composure: “We are so happy with this win but also the character we showed. Three points here at City is not something you can expect. It’s a night to remember and fuel for our development.”

The visitors’ resilience and preparation proved decisive, as even with several under-19 players on the bench, the team maintained focus and executed Guardiola’s game plan effectively.

Guardiola’s Champions League Record

Despite this setback, Guardiola reached a milestone, becoming only the third manager to lead an English club in 100+ Champions League matches, alongside Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. Yet, this occasion will be remembered for the unexpected defeat rather than the achievement.

Former City midfielder Michael Brown commented on BBC Radio 5 Live: “Why didn’t you play a stronger team? Win the game and then make the changes. The rotation gave the away side a massive lift.”

Tactical and Player Implications

Guardiola defended his approach, emphasizing the demands of a long season: “Everyone – including the guys who came from the bench – were the same. Every shot was blocked, they slipped 10 times… there is no human being who can sustain that.”

However, the defeat leaves City under pressure ahead of their next Champions League clash against Real Madrid on 10 December. The performance exposed weaknesses in squad cohesion and raised questions about the timing and extent of rotation in high-stakes European fixtures.

Leverkusen Celebrate Historic Win

For Bayer Leverkusen, the result represents a landmark achievement. Players and fans celebrated together, showcasing unity and belief. Former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah highlighted the team’s determination: “The way the boys managed to pull through – everyone led tonight. It was a lot of character, determination, and grit.”

With a packed Champions League schedule ahead, Guardiola and City will need to reassess squad management strategies while maintaining their challenge in Europe.