Pep Guardiola has responded sharply to claims made by pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, who suggested that a rift had developed between him and Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne. The speculation arose after De Bruyne’s limited playing time since recovering from a pelvic injury. Over five substitute appearances, De Bruyne has only managed to play 72 minutes, leading to questions about his relationship with Guardiola. In the aftermath of City’s defeat to Liverpool on Sunday, both Neville and Carragher voiced their concerns, with Neville suggesting that “something is definitely going on” behind the scenes, and Carragher stating, “something isn’t right between those two.”
Guardiola, however, vehemently denied these allegations and sarcastically responded to the accusations. He said, “People say I’ve got a problem with Kevin. Do you think I like to not play with Kevin?” Continuing with a tongue-in-cheek tone, he added, “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 also took the opportunity to praise De Bruyne’s immense contributions to the club, emphasizing that the 33-year-old has been one of the key figures in City’s successes.
Guardiola went on to explain that De Bruyne, now 33, has had a difficult recovery after multiple injuries, including a long-term hamstring issue. Guardiola stated, “He’s delivered the biggest successes to this club,” but pointed out that De Bruyne’s age and injury history mean that he is no longer at the physical level of his prime years. Guardiola explained, “I’d love to have the Kevin in his prime, 26 or 27. He would love it too. But he is not 26 or 27 anymore.” Guardiola emphasized that De Bruyne needs time to regain full fitness, much like last season when he gradually returned to form.
Guardiola also discussed his broader concerns with City’s current struggles, highlighting the impact of an injury crisis that has hindered the team’s performance. He noted that had City not faced so many injuries, they could be in a stronger position in the league, potentially even competing with Liverpool. Guardiola stressed the need for more contributions from his attacking players, calling for goals and assists from players like Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, and Jeremy Doku. He said, “I’m desperate for five goals and assists from (Phil) Foden after last season… Not 20, 30 or 40. Just five goals and assists from these players and we’d be top of the league.” Guardiola concluded by acknowledging that injuries and readiness have been a significant problem for the team this season.
