Pep Guardiola has responded to growing speculation about his relationship with Kevin De Bruyne, following the Belgian midfielder’s limited appearances for Manchester City. Since returning from an abdominal injury sustained in September during the Inter Milan match, De Bruyne has only been involved in five substitute appearances, with Guardiola waiting until City was 2-0 down against Liverpool before introducing him to the game. This decision sparked discussions among pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, who suggested there might be underlying tensions between the player and the manager. Neville called the situation “unusual, bizarre, strange,” while Carragher agreed, saying “something isn’t right if he isn’t in the team when he is fit.”
During a press conference on Tuesday, Guardiola addressed these comments, though not in response to direct questions about De Bruyne’s absence. He said, “People say I’ve got a problem with Kevin. Do you think I like to not play with Kevin? No, I don’t want Kevin to play. The guy who has the most talent in the final third. I don’t want it. I have a personal problem with him after nine years together.” Guardiola emphasized the immense contribution De Bruyne has made to the club, saying, “He’s delivered to me the biggest success to this club.” However, he noted that De Bruyne, at 33 years old, has faced multiple injuries over the past few months and needs time to regain his form.
Guardiola also hinted that De Bruyne could feature more regularly in the upcoming match against Nottingham Forest, which could be crucial for City as they look to end a seven-match winless streak. Guardiola, however, tempered expectations, stating, “I’d love to have the Kevin in his prime—26 or 27,” acknowledging that De Bruyne’s age and injury history means he can no longer perform at the same level as he did in his prime. Despite his desire to see De Bruyne return to full fitness, Guardiola stressed that individual players, including De Bruyne, won’t solve City’s broader problems. “We attack and defend together,” he concluded, hoping that with time, the team can regain their confidence and form.
