Pep Guardiola Addresses Speculation Of Rift With Kevin De Bruyne Amid Injury Concerns

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Pep Guardiola has dismissed rumours of a disagreement with Manchester City's midfielder, Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian player has faced another challenging season due to injuries, starting only four Premier League games in 2024-25. After recovering from an abdominal injury that sidelined him for eight weeks, De Bruyne has played just 72 minutes over five substitute appearances.

When De Bruyne entered the field at Anfield on Sunday, only 12 minutes remained in the match, which ended in a 2-0 loss to Liverpool. During Sky Sports' coverage, Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville speculated about potential issues between Guardiola and De Bruyne. However, Guardiola defended their relationship.

"People say I've got a problem with Kevin," Guardiola stated. "Do you think I like not playing Kevin? 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? He's delivered to me the biggest success to this club."

Guardiola emphasised his eagerness to see De Bruyne return to his best form. He highlighted that De Bruyne has been injured for five months and is now 33 years old, requiring time to regain peak performance.

De Bruyne missed significant time from August to January during the 2023-24 season due to a recurring hamstring injury initially sustained in the 2023 Champions League final against Inter Milan. With his contract set to expire at year's end, he confirmed that renewal discussions have not yet commenced as he focuses on regaining fitness.

"I'd love to have Kevin in his prime, at 26 or 27," said Guardiola. "He would love it too. But he is not 26 or 27 anymore." Guardiola acknowledged De Bruyne's past injuries and stressed the importance of physical fitness for his style of play.

Guardiola noted that despite De Bruyne's age and injury history, he remains eager to contribute significantly to the team. "He gives glimpses of brilliance that only he can have," Guardiola added, recognising De Bruyne's unique talents and desire to help Manchester City succeed.