Pep Guardiola Dismisses Kevin De Bruyne Transfer Rumors:
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has dismissed reports linking Kevin De Bruyne with a move away from the club amid speculation the Belgium midfielder may depart for Saudi Arabia. De Bruyne, whose contract expires in 2025, had previously stated he is not ruling out a move, but Guardiola remains confident there will be no major changes to the squad before the transfer window closes on August 30.
Transfer Market Insights
Guardiola addressed the rumors during a press conference at North Carolina State University on Monday, ahead of Manchester City’s opening U.S. tour match against Celtic.
“Kevin is not going,” Guardiola said. “I am delighted with the squad for many years. I don’t know what will happen in the market, if someone leaves, we will talk about that. But 85-95% we will have the same squad. We’ve made an impact in the market over the years and every situation is different. I feel comfortable because the quality we have in the squad is difficult to replace.”
Recent Signings and Squad Updates
Manchester City recently signed 20-year-old Brazilian winger Sávio, and Guardiola confirmed that Kalvin Phillips, who was on loan to West Ham United, has been training with the first team.
“[Sávio] can play on the wing, and when he is one-v-one, he is devastating,” Guardiola added. “He is young and to bring in one or two players to keep things fresh, it is necessary but we cannot change six or seven. It is impossible and unsustainable.”
Premier League Title Defence
Manchester City will begin their Premier League title defence against Chelsea on August 18. Guardiola expressed confidence in his squad’s ability to compete at the highest level despite the challenging transfer market.
“Many players want to come here but we didn’t get agreements from the clubs and when they ask a very high price we don’t do it.”
