Kevin De Bruyne’s disagreement with Guardiola shows how much it means to Manchester City
During the second half of yesterday’s 1-all draw with Liverpool at Anfield Manchester City was under serious pressure. Pep Guardiola’s side couldn’t keep possession which gave way to serious pressure from the hosts. In the 69th minute, Guardiola decided to make a change and bring on Mateo Kovacic and Jeremy Doku for Kevin De Bruyne and Julian Alvarez. Kevin De Bruyne’s reaction to being substituted showed his frustration at being taken off in such a big game.
But there was another side to Kevin De Bruyne’s reaction. While it will be one talking point out of a game full of them it did show just how desperate Manchester City are to win their fourth consecutive Premier title. It took determination and will for the champions to leave Anfield with a point. They showed that in spades during the second half. On another day City could’ve collapsed under the weight of Liverpool’s pressure. But they didn’t yesterday which showed just how determined they are to create history.
It is a one-in-a-lifetime opportunity for this Manchester City squad to win a fourth consecutive Premier League title. The chance on offer this season may never come again for City’s players. Kevin De Bruyne’s reaction to being substituted is a perfect encapsulation of this. City’s inspirational midfielder could see what was happening on the pitch and was desperate to stop it. The fact he was substituted just added to his frustration.
Speaking post game Pep Guardiola explained his decision to substitute De Bruyne. He also said he was happy to see his midfielder’s reaction to being taken off. He said: “I’m happy to see that!’ I like it if he’s upset, it’s good. He’s happy now. I knew what we were missing, we missed keeping the ball. After (he went off) we did it better. But, listen, Kevin… what can I say for Kevin… we need him and he is important.”
Kevin De Bruyne’s reaction to being substituted shows just how much yesterday’s game meant to Manchester City and himself. It was also a microcosm of just how much winning a fourth consecutive Premier League title means to Kevin De Bruyne and this Manchester City squad.
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