Pep Guardiola Clarifies De Bruyne’s Future Amid Transfer Rumors.
In a recent statement, former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola has clarified that there are currently no offers for Kevin De Bruyne. This comes amidst rumors that Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad is prepared to offer a substantial salary to lure the Belgian midfielder. Guardiola emphasized that De Bruyne has the autonomy to decide his future after his significant contributions to Manchester City over the past nine years.
Both De Bruyne and Julian Alvarez have been at the center of numerous rumors recently. Guardiola addressed these speculations directly.’
“The club has informed me that there are no offers for De Bruyne,” stated Guardiola. “I don’t know what will happen, but I want him to stay. De Bruyne was here when I arrived. He is the longest-serving player for Man City in the current squad. Much like David Silva and other players before him, De Bruyne has earned the right to decide his future. His contributions to us have been immense, so he can make his own decision. From what I know now, he will stay at Man City.”
Regarding Julian Alvarez, Guardiola mentioned he is awaiting the outcome of discussions between the Argentine forward’s agent and Man City’s director of football, Txiki Begiristain. Alvarez, 24, is currently competing with the Argentina Olympic team at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The 53-year-old manager commented, “I am not considering replacing Alvarez. I understand Alvarez has mentioned he will consider his future. After he makes his decision, his agent will contact Txiki. I know Alvarez wants to play in crucial moments, but other players do too. If Alvarez wants more, that’s fine; let him think about it and then inform us.”
Alvarez has not yet decided on his future, despite rumors suggesting he might leave Man City this summer. Atletico Madrid is reportedly interested in the 24-year-old, seeing him as an ideal replacement for Alvaro Morata.
In an interview with DSports Radio, Alvarez said, “I haven’t had time to think about what I will do. Last season, I was one of the players with the most minutes for Man City. But it’s true that being left out of the starting lineup for important matches is not pleasant.
“I will take time to think about my decision. I need to consider everything calmly. After the Olympics, I will reflect on what I want for myself.”
Alvarez played a total of 54 matches for Man City across all competitions last season, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists. However, in key matches, it was Erling Haaland who was preferred by Guardiola for the starting lineup. Being sidelined in crucial games has led the Argentine striker to reconsider his future at the club.
In conclusion, while Pep Guardiola has made it clear that De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City remains secure for now, Julian Alvarez’s situation remains uncertain as he contemplates his next steps post-Olympics.