Pep Guardiola and Kevin De Bruyne (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Pep Guardiola has expressed confidence that Kevin De Bruyne will remain at Manchester City beyond this season, despite speculation linking the midfielder with a move to MLS or Saudi Arabia.
The Belgian playmaker’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, raising questions about his future. However, Guardiola believes that De Bruyne and other senior players remain crucial to City’s plans moving forward.
"There are players here that their age is over 30, but they are part of the future of this club. Kevin and the club will decide on his future. Everyone who has a contract for next season, I expect him to be here," Guardiola said in Friday’s press conference.
"They are going to help us. Next season will be a lot of games. We cannot do it just with our new ones. They will be able to help and be part of our season."
Man City’s squad rebuild
City underwent a squad revamp in the January transfer window, investing £180 million ($223m) in young talent. The club signed Omar Marmoush (26), Vitor Reis (19), Abdukodir Khusanov (20), and Nicolás González (23) as part of a long-term squad-building strategy.
With this youthful overhaul, the futures of several senior stars—including Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and Éderson—have also been called into question.
While De Bruyne’s future is yet to be officially decided, Guardiola’s comments suggest that the club remains hopeful of extending his stay.