Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has dismissed claims of a “personal problem” with Kevin De Bruyne, attributing the midfielder’s recent absence from the starting lineup to fitness concerns.
City is currently experiencing its worst run under Guardiola, having gone seven games without a win across all competitions. De Bruyne, who has only appeared as a substitute in the last five matches, is recovering from a pelvic injury sustained during a Champions League match against Inter Milan on September 18.
Former City defender and club ambassador Micah Richards raised eyebrows over De Bruyne’s lack of starts during this challenging period for the champions. On the “The Rest is Football” podcast, Richards speculated that there might be a rift between De Bruyne and Guardiola.
In response to these comments, Guardiola addressed the media ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest. “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?” he stated. “I have a personal problem with him after nine years together? He’s delivered the biggest successes to this club, but he’s been five months injured last season and two months injured this year. He’s 33 years old. He needs time to find his best form, step by step. I’m desperate to have him back at his best.”
Both De Bruyne and Guardiola have acknowledged the significant pain De Bruyne experienced following his injury and the importance of gradually reintegrating him into the team.
De Bruyne is in the final year of his contract, and Guardiola expressed a longing for the player’s prime form. “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 said. “He has had important and long injuries in the past. He needs to be physically fit for his space and energy. You think I’m complaining? It’s normal, it’s nature. He’s played a lot of games over 10 or 11 seasons, and I know he is desperate to help us. He gives glimpses of brilliance that only he can provide.”
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