Manchester City’s recent downturn in form has sparked widespread debate, with many pundits speculating on the underlying causes. Among them is BeIN Sports presenter Richard Keys, who has suggested that Pep Guardiola might be growing “tired” of Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian playmaker, often regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, has faced a challenging season, raising questions about his future at the Etihad Stadium and his relationship with Guardiola.
De Bruyne’s Rumored Exit and Saudi Temptations
Over the summer, De Bruyne found himself at the center of transfer speculation, with Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly expressing serious interest. Some reports even claimed that the 33-year-old had agreed to personal terms with a Saudi club. Although a move did not materialize, De Bruyne’s comments during this period hinted at the possibility.
“At my age, you have to be open to everything,” De Bruyne remarked earlier this year. “You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that. If I play there [Saudi Arabia] for two years, I will be able to earn an incredible amount of money. Before that, I had to play football for 15 years. I may not even reach that amount yet. Then you have to think about what that could mean next. But at the moment, I haven’t had to think about that yet.”
These candid reflections suggest that De Bruyne is contemplating his future, especially as he enters the final year of his contract with Manchester City. For a player who has achieved so much, the lure of a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia is understandable. However, his decision to remain at City for now raises questions about his role in the team’s future plans.
Manchester City’s Uncharacteristic Slump
City’s recent form has been uncharacteristically poor, with the team experiencing a five-game losing streak for the first time under Guardiola’s leadership. Their 3-3 draw with Feyenoord in the Champions League only compounded their woes, extending their winless run to six matches in all competitions. This sudden slump has left fans and analysts alike searching for answers.
Richard Keys, in his blog, pondered the reasons behind City’s decline. “What on earth is going on at City?” he wrote. “I was right that Guardiola was planning to leave. He’s admitted it now. If I knew that, I’m quite certain his players did, and I initially thought the speculation inside the club was having an unsettling effect on them. But after watching them torn apart by Spurs, I’m not sure it’s as simple as that.”
Keys observed that City appeared “flat-footed, out of energy and ideas” during their recent matches. He acknowledged that while some players might be in decline, the squad still possesses immense talent. “Unlike United, there are too many good players on the books for the slump to last,” he noted.
The De Bruyne Conundrum
Central to Keys’ analysis is the role—or lack thereof—of Kevin De Bruyne. Despite being a pivotal figure in City’s success over the years, De Bruyne has found himself on the bench for the past five games. This has fueled speculation about a potential rift between the player and his manager.
“Has Guardiola tired of De Bruyne?” Keys questioned. “He’s had him on the bench for the last five games now. Why isn’t he starting? Could it be that Guardiola is trying to find a different way and that De Bruyne’s race is run?”
Keys’ comments highlight a broader narrative about De Bruyne’s influence and the challenges of managing a player of his stature. The Belgian’s relationship with former Belgium coach Roberto Martinez was reportedly strained, particularly during the 2022 World Cup. De Bruyne’s outspoken nature and high expectations have sometimes made him a difficult figure to manage, a point Keys alluded to. “As Roberto Martinez found out when De Bruyne blew the Belgian squad up before a ball was kicked at the last World Cup, he can be a difficult boy to manage. But you could never question his ability.”
Guardiola’s Strategic Shift?
Guardiola’s decision to bench De Bruyne could be part of a broader tactical shift. Known for his relentless pursuit of innovation, Guardiola has never been afraid to make bold decisions, even if they involve sidelining star players. It’s possible that he is experimenting with new formations or strategies that do not prioritize De Bruyne’s role.
Alternatively, Guardiola might be sending a message to the squad, emphasizing that no player is indispensable. This approach has worked for him in the past, fostering a culture of accountability and competition. However, it also raises the question of whether De Bruyne still fits into Guardiola’s long-term vision.
De Bruyne’s Legacy and Future
There is no denying De Bruyne’s contribution to Manchester City’s success. Since joining the club in 2015, he has been instrumental in their dominance, winning five Premier League titles, five League Cups, and the Champions League. His vision, passing, and leadership have made him a fan favorite and a key figure in City’s golden era.
Yet, as he approaches the twilight of his career, the dynamics are shifting. The rise of younger talents like Phil Foden and the need for tactical flexibility might be prompting Guardiola to reconsider De Bruyne’s role. If the Belgian’s recent benching is any indication, the coming months could be crucial in determining his future at the club.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for City and De Bruyne
Manchester City’s current struggles are a reminder of the challenges inherent in maintaining dominance at the highest level. For Pep Guardiola, the task is not just about overcoming a temporary slump but also about managing the evolving dynamics within his squad. Kevin De Bruyne’s situation epitomizes this challenge. Whether this is a temporary setback or a sign of a deeper rift remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the relationship between Guardiola and De Bruyne will be pivotal in shaping City’s future.
As Richard Keys aptly put it, the coming weeks will reveal whether Guardiola’s decision to bench De Bruyne is a tactical experiment or a sign that the Belgian’s “race is run.” For now, all eyes are on the Etihad, where the drama continues to unfold.