1 month ago
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Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has debunked the reports that his prolific midfielder, Kevin de Bruyne, is leaving the Premier League club this summer.
Naija News understands there were speculations earlier that the 33-year-old Belgian star was on the verge of leaving Etihad to sign for a Saudi Pro League club.
However, in a post via his official X account on Tuesday, popular football transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, wrote: “Pep Guardiola has just confirmed that Kevin de Bruyne will NOT sign for Saudi Pro League this summer.
“No, Kevin is NOT leaving,’Pep says.”
As previously clarified, the issue of viral claims has been addressed by Guardiola.
A BBC report had indicated that De Bruyne is under significant consideration for a transfer to Saudi Arabia, with the summer move being a possibility.
With only one year remaining on his contract with the Blues, De Bruyne expressed in a statement last month that he would need to evaluate potential offers from the Saudi Pro-League, citing the “incredible money” on the table as a factor in his decision-making process.
However, Guardiola appears to be at ease with the situation.
“Kevin isn’t leaving,” Guardiola reassured reporters prior to the Blues’ inaugural pre-season match against Celtic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, on Wednesday (00:30 BST).
De Bruyne’s contribution to City’s victory in the Premier League title last season was instrumental, marking the club’s fourth consecutive win and De Bruyne’s sixth overall at the helm.
Furthermore, Crystal Palace’s squad member for the England Euro 2024 tournament, Ebereche Eze, has been the focus of interest from City, while Brazil goalkeeper Ederson has also been in the crosshairs of Saudi Arabia.
Guardiola, however, appears to be confident in retaining a similar squad to that of the previous season.
A graphic designer turned into an immensely creative journalist committed to high-quality research and writing. A gospel music minister and Sportsman - Meet me on X - [@JoshuaOgunsile]
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