Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has addressed rumors of a rift with star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. During a press conference, Guardiola firmly denied any personal issues with De Bruyne, emphasizing his eagerness to see the Belgian return to peak form.
The speculation arose after De Bruyne was limited to five substitute appearances following an abdominal injury sustained against Inter Milan in September.
Guardiola clarified, "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. I have a personal problem with him after nine years together."
Despite the rumors, Guardiola expressed his desperation to have De Bruyne back at his best, acknowledging the player's important contributions to the club's success over the years. He noted that De Bruyne, now 33, has faced several long-term injuries and needs time to regain his fitness.
Guardiola hinted at De Bruyne's potential return to the starting lineup for their upcoming match against Nottingham Forest, as City aims to end a seven-game winless streak.
Guardiola also highlighted the importance of teamwork, stating, "He himself will not solve our problems. Like Erling [Haaland] won't solve it himself. We attack and defend together. We want the best players back. Hopefully step by step the confidence will come back and we'll get the best of all of us."
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