Pep Guardiola Confident in Kevin De Bruyne’s Future Amidst Contract Talks

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola expects Kevin De Bruyne to sign a contract extension with the club, urging senior players to remain at the club despite their recent struggles.

De Bruyne’s current deal with City is set to expire at the end of the season, with speculation linking the Belgian midfielder to a move to Major League Soccer or Saudi Arabia. However, Guardiola remains confident that his star player will stay in Manchester to help the team through their challenges.

Pep Guardiola gives instructions to Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“There are players here who are over 30, but they are still part of the club’s future. Kevin and the club will decide on his future, but everyone with a contract for next season, I expect them to be here,” Guardiola told reporters on Friday.

“They will help us. Next season will be full of games, and we cannot rely solely on new signings. The experienced players will be crucial in guiding us through the season.”

Manchester City has begun a rebuilding phase, spending £180 million ($223m) during the January transfer window to bring in fresh talent. The club signed Omar Marmoush (26), Vitor Reis (19), Abdukodir Khusanov (20), and Nicolás González (23) as part of a long-term squad-building strategy.

However, the arrival of these young players has led to speculation about the departures of key figures such as Bernardo Silva, John Stones, and Éderson.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that De Bruyne is open to staying at Manchester City beyond this season, even if he is no longer a guaranteed starter.