Pep Guardiola was reportedly irked after discovering that Kyle Walker had bypassed him to discuss a potential January departure with Manchester City's top brass. The English defender has since joined AC Milan on loan, leaving the Etihad after a lengthy tenure spanning nearly eight years and flourishing under Guardiola's tutelage.

Both have been used in the last few months to give the tired legs of more senior players a chance to rest, and McAtee has a fine two-season spell at Sheffield United on his record, plus the backing of many fans. For now, the pair will have to continue to try to convince Guardiola to give them a chance on the training pitch.

Pep Guardiola’s demand for dominance has made Manchester City great, but now he and the team need some fresh tricks.