Guardiola: De Bruyne Almost Impossible to Replace at City

Pep Guardiola believes Manchester City face an almost impossible task in replacing Kevin De Bruyne given the influence the Belgian has had over the last decade.

De Bruyne has won six Premier League crowns and 13 major trophies since joining City in 2015, a year before Guardiola arrived.

The 33-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the season, and he has already intimated that the Saudi Pro League’s riches could lure him.

“I would like to have a 23-year-old Kevin and sign a contract for 10 more years,” Guardiola stated on Friday.

“There are players who will have an impact on the club’s legacy for the rest of its existence.

It’s not easy (to replace), but we’ll see what happens.

De Bruyne played a key role in City’s 3-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest on Wednesday, his first start in nearly three months.

Guardiola has been cautious with the playmaker’s minutes, but admits he may be forced to select De Bruyne again for Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace due to an injury issue.
We don’t have many players, so we’ll see,” Guardiola explained.

“It’s important to have him back, but it’s been a long time. (Now we play) three days, three days, three days; we’ll see how he reacts to this many games.”

Phil Foden remains out due to illness, while Nathan Ake had a muscular injury late in the game against Forest.

Rodri, John Stones, Mateo Kovacic, and Oscar Bobb are all missing for the English champions.

AFP