De Bruyne One Of Premier League’s Greatest Midfielders – Guardiola

‎Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, shared his thoughts on Kevin De Bruyne’s announcement to leave the club this summer.

‎Guardiola praised De Bruyne as one of the finest midfielders in Premier League history, emphasizing the profound impact he has had on the team.

‎His departure will undoubtedly leave a significant void, but Guardiola’s respect and admiration for the Belgian playmaker highlight the remarkable legacy De Bruyne will leave at Manchester City.

‎City make the short trip to Old Trafford this weekend as Guardiola’s side attempt to beat United for the first time since March 2024.

‎This is the 196th Manchester derby for two sides separated by 14 points in what should be another interesting affair. Guardiola first spoke on the departure of Kevin de Bruyne which was announced earlier today.

‎”A sad day. It was a happy day for the fact that I lived this time with him. What he gave all of us, his humanity, and, of course, I don’t have to say his influence on our success in the last decade.

‎”It would be impossible to imagine that without him. A sad day because a part of us is leaving. When Vincent (Kompany) left, Sergio (Aguero) left, or David Silva left, and I would say more names, it was a sad day.

‎”But still, we have 10 games and hopefully 11, and six games at home that we can still enjoy with our fans, and I’m pretty sure he will get the love and the recognition from all of us that he deserves.

‎”His assists, his goals, His vision in the final third is so difficult to replace. Over how many years and games, that makes him unique. This is a business, and important players have to perform well, and managers have to perform well.”

‎He added, “Any person can discuss their performance, and in this last decade, he has been outstanding. We won a lot of trophies and he has been involved in every single one. I think we will remember him. He’s part of this club.

‎”The club said to him the doors are open for the rest of his life. Whatever he wants to do, he’s part of the family of this club. The impact of some players transcends even what they do on the pitch and Kevin is one of them.”

‎Guardiola also said that he “will bet a lot of money” that De Bruyne gets a statue at the club and that the Belgian international leaving will be “emotionally tough.”