When Pep Guardiola became Manchester City manager in the summer of 2016, he gave Nicolas Otamendi a new lease of life.

The defender improved significantly and seemed to wash away his erratic moments.

[ad_pod ]

However, on Thursday night while representing Argentina at the World Cup, the 30-year-old let the frustration of their Group D match against Croatia get to him.

[brid autoplay="true" video="257647" player="12034" title="3 Reasons We Love To Hate... Brazil and Argentina"]

The centre-back managed to escape a red card, despite kicking the ball into Ivan Rakitic's face while the Croatian was on the floor as a result of a tackle.

Jorge Sampaoli's side were poor overall as they succumbed to a 3-0 loss, which has poured significant doubt over the nation's ability to progress from the group stage.

Even though the team possess the talent of Barcelona superstar Lionel Messi, they are yet to win a game having drawn 1-1 with Iceland and losing to Croatia.

Plenty of Man City fans were left stunned by Otamendi's actions on the field, and they proceeded to verbally bash him on social media.

Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.
Comment from discussion Otamendi vs Croatia.