**Pep Guardiola Dismisses Speculation of Kevin De Bruyne’s Departure from Manchester City**
Reports had surfaced suggesting that veteran Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne had agreed to terms with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, sparking concerns among Manchester City fans. However, Pep Guardiola has categorically denied the rumors, stating that De Bruyne is not leaving the Premier League champions.
Guardiola’s assurance comes as a relief to Manchester City supporters, who have grown accustomed to De Bruyne’s exceptional skills on the pitch. The 33-year-old midfielder has been a vital cog in City’s success, and his potential departure would have been a significant blow.
Guardiola emphasized that the team is not planning a major overhaul in the summer transfer window, with the recent signing of Brazilian winger Savinho being the only notable addition so far. “Kevin isn’t leaving,” Guardiola stated confidently. “If someone leaves, we’ll talk about that. Of course, until the last day, we have chances (to make transfers), I don’t rule out the option to have new players, but I think there is an 85, 90 per cent chance we will have the same squad.”
Kevin De Bruyne (right) has been strongly linked with a move to Saudi Arabia
Guardiola also expressed his admiration for James McAtee, who has impressed during City’s preseason training sessions in the United States. McAtee has spent the last two seasons on loan at Sheffield United, and Guardiola believes he has made significant progress. “I’m curious to see Macca especially, I have a high opinion of him,” Guardiola said. “I’d like him to insert himself properly with the team. I’d love to keep him next season, he’s a special guy to play in the small spaces, in the pockets.”
Pep Guardiola was recently pictured at Wimbledon as he enjoyed his time off
With the transfer window still open, Manchester City fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that De Bruyne is staying put. As for McAtee, his impressive displays have earned him a chance to prove himself in the first team, and Guardiola’s praise is a testament to his growth as a player.