Former England captain Wayne Rooney has questioned Manchester City’s decision to stage emotional farewells for Bernardo Silva and John Stones during Sunday’s defeat by Aston Villa, saying the timing of the gestures would have angered the opposition.
The match carried huge emotional significance at the Etihad Stadium as City supporters prepared to say goodbye to several key figures connected to one of the club’s most successful eras.
Alongside the departures of Silva and Stones, it also marked the final game in charge for manager Pep Guardiola, who confirmed earlier this month that he would leave the club at the end of the season.
Despite the occasion, City were unable to end Guardiola’s reign with victory. Villa secured a dramatic 2-1 win after goals from Antoine Semenyo and a brace from Ollie Watkins overturned the hosts’ advantage and spoiled the farewell celebrations.
Silva and Stones were both selected in Guardiola’s starting line-up for what proved to be their final appearances in City colours.
The emotional atmosphere intensified midway through the second half when Silva was substituted in the 59th minute for Mateo Kovacic.
Players from both teams formed a guard of honour as the Portuguese midfielder walked from the pitch to a standing ovation from supporters.
Television cameras captured Guardiola appearing visibly emotional on the touchline, with the City manager wiping away tears as Silva embraced team-mates and coaching staff before taking his place on the bench.
Later in the contest, Stones received a similar send-off after being replaced by Josko Gvardiol in the 77th minute.
Once again, players from both sides lined up to applaud the departing defender in recognition of his contribution to the club over recent seasons.
While many supporters inside the stadium welcomed the tributes, Rooney felt the ceremonies should have been reserved until after the final whistle, particularly given the match was still being contested.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Rooney 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 [guard of honour] after the game.
“If I was in that Aston Villa team, I’d be fuming.”
The former Manchester United striker suggested the occasion distracted from the competitive nature of the match and placed Villa players in an awkward position while the result was still in the balance.
Rooney’s criticism was echoed by fellow pundit Alan Shearer, who admitted he was surprised Villa had agreed to take part in the tributes before full-time.
“I was surprised that Villa agreed to doing it, particularly with so long left,” Shearer said.
“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.”
Emotional end to Guardiola era at Manchester City
The defeat brought a disappointing conclusion to Guardiola’s glittering spell at City, during which the Spaniard transformed the club into one of Europe’s dominant forces.
Since arriving in Manchester, Guardiola has overseen multiple league titles, domestic cup triumphs and continental success, building a side widely regarded as one of the finest in modern English football.
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Sunday’s match therefore carried an atmosphere more reflective of a farewell event than a routine league fixture.
Supporters unveiled banners in honour of Guardiola before kick-off, while applause regularly rang around the stadium whenever Silva or Stones were involved in play.
Silva’s departure in particular marked the end of a hugely successful period for the midfielder, who became one of Guardiola’s most trusted players after joining Manchester City from Monaco.
Known for his technical ability, work rate and versatility, the Portugal international played a central role in several title-winning campaigns and earned admiration from supporters for his consistency in major matches.
Stones also leaves after establishing himself as one of England’s leading defenders during his time at the club.
Injuries occasionally disrupted his progress, but he remained an important figure within Guardiola’s tactical system, especially during City’s most successful campaigns in recent years.
