Having lost the first leg 3-0 at Anfield, City came out for the return match loaded with attacking options and immediately put the Reds on the back foot.

Gabriel Jesus cut the deficit to two with a second minute strike, while Bernardo crashed a shot against the post as the hosts went all out for victory.

Pep, however, took apparent exception to some of the calls made by referee Antonio Miguel Mateu Lahoz, and at the half-time mark held a furious exchange with the official.

Lahoz in turn sent Pep off as he walked towards the tunnel, meaning he will not be able to take his place on the bench after the break.

A disallowed goal for City towards the end of the first half appeared to be the catalyst for the former Barcelona and Bayern Munich coach's rage.

Leroy Sane converted after Loris Karius' weak punch and a goalmouth scramble, but the winger's strike was called back for a marginal offside.