Manchester City fans are urging Pep Guardiola to give one of the team’s young talents more playing time following his standout performance in the FA Cup.
After returning to winning form in the Premier League, City kicked off their FA Cup campaign with a dominant 8-0 victory against League Two side Salford City on Saturday evening. Goals from Divin Mubama, Nico O’Reilly, Jack Grealish, a brace from Jeremy Doku, and a hat-trick from James McAtee secured the emphatic win.
McAtee’s performance drew widespread praise on social media, with fans calling for Guardiola to include him in the starting lineup more frequently.
One fan wrote, “James McAtee is such a talent. He should be starting for a Premier League team.” Another added, “James McAtee needs to be starting for Manchester City. Every single week.” Others echoed similar sentiments, including: “James McAtee should be starting every week for City,” “You can’t stop greatness, Guardiola,” and “That’s how you show Pep who you are!”
Reflecting on his performance after the game, McAtee told BBC Match of the Day: “I was a bit frustrated in the first half, not seeing much of the ball. Once the first goal went in, my confidence grew, and I kept scoring. I’ve been here since I was 10, and it’s a special moment for me—something I’ll always remember. I didn’t feel like I needed to prove myself, but it was great to get out there and show what I can do.”
Former England and Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer also praised the young midfielder, saying: “James McAtee didn’t get much of the ball in the first half, but he grew into the game, and his finishes were outstanding.”
City will return to action on Tuesday night in the Premier League when they face Brentford.
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