Pep Guardiola, Manchester City coach, responded with sarcasm to rumors of an alleged disagreement with Kevin De Bruyne, relayed by consultants like Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville. During a press conference before the match against Nottingham Forest, Guardiola quipped: “People say I have a problem with Kevin. Do you think I like not playing with Kevin? No, I don’t want Kevin to play. I have a personal problem with him after nine years together. »
This statement, although tinged with humor, was intended to put an end to speculation. Guardiola explained that the physical problems of the Belgian midfielder, aged 33, explain his low playing time this season: only 11 appearances, including 4 starts. Since returning from injury in November, De Bruyne has been limited to 72 minutes in five games. Guardiola insists on a gradual return to regain his best level.
“Kevin brought the greatest success to this club”
Despite the injuries, Guardiola highlighted the importance of De Bruyne to Manchester City: “He brought the greatest success to this club. I’d like to see him in his prime, but he’s not 26 or 27 anymore. He needs time to regain his form, step by step, like last season. » Loyal to City since 2015, De Bruyne reaches the end of his contract next June, and the Belgian’s future remains uncertain.
Manchester City, struggling this season with seven games without a win, hopes to regain momentum thanks to the gradual returns of key players like De Bruyne.
