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PEP GUARDIOLA addressed rumors regarding a rift between him and Kevin De Bruyne.
The 33-year-old Belgian midfielder was out of the Manchester City squad for two months due to a groin injury, but has only been a substitute for the previous five matches.
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Following his exclusion from the lineup during Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Liverpool, analyst Jamie Carragher expressed that it was “sad” and implied that “something isn’t right between those two.”
In response, a sarcastic Guardiola remarked: “People say I have a conflict with Kevin. Do you think I enjoy not playing him?”
“No, I don’t want Kevin to be sidelined. He is the player with the most skill in the final third — why would I want him out?”
“Yes, I have a personal issue with him after nine years together.”
Analyst Gary Neville described it as “bizarre and strange” to see De Bruyne on the bench at Anfield.
The former Manchester United player suggested that “something is definitely going on in the dressing room.”
Gary Lineker and ex-City defender Micah Richards also indicated their belief that there may be an underlying issue.
However, De Bruyne mentioned last week that he was still experiencing pain when striking the ball due to an ongoing issue.
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The Belgian has been recovering from injuries for a large portion of the last two seasons.
In preparation for their match against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, Guardiola stressed that he cannot force De Bruyne’s return, even though he is “eager” to play him.
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The manager noted: “He has given me the most success at this club.
“But De Bruyne was absent for five months last season and two months this season.
“Like last year, it’s a gradual process. He will work on returning and feeling better. I’m looking forward to seeing him at his best.”
De Bruyne believes he is nearing full fitness, with Guardiola acknowledging his recent significant progress.
However, Guardiola warned that merely having De Bruyne back in the starting lineup won’t fix all of City’s problems after an unexpected run of six losses in seven matches.
He added: “I’d love to see Kevin at his prime, 26 or 27. I’m sure he would too. But he is no longer 26 or 27.
“He has dealt with long-term injuries before. He needs to be physically fit for his position and energy.
“Do you think I’m lamenting this? It’s just the way it is — he has played ten or eleven seasons of football with many matches.
“I know he is eager to help us — he shows moments of brilliance that only he can provide.
“But I’ve always said, he alone won’t solve our issues.”
De Bruyne will be eager to contribute as City looks to end their losing streak against Forest.
When questioned if the veteran was ready, Guardiola replied: “He’s getting closer and improving. The last few days have shown great advancement.”
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