Pep Guardiola Uncertain on De Bruyne’s Final Man City Home Game Start, Prioritizes Top-Five Finish

 

Pep Guardiola has refrained from guaranteeing that Kevin De Bruyne will start in his last home match for Manchester City against Bournemouth. With De Bruyne set to depart after a decade of brilliance, including 16 trophies, the manager’s priority is securing a top-five Premier League finish to ensure Champions League qualification next season. Manchester City, currently sixth, trail third-placed Newcastle, Chelsea, and Aston Villa by one point. 

Four points from their remaining two games should suffice for a top-five spot, but Guardiola is taking no chances, emphasizing the need to field the strongest lineup to win. De Bruyne, a club legend, recently scored a crucial goal against Wolves and played the full FA Cup final, which City lost to Crystal Palace. However, his fitness and the demanding schedule could impact Guardiola’s team selection. “What Kevin wants is that we win the game to qualify for the Champions League next season,” Guardiola said, highlighting the collective goal over individual sentiment. City’s recent form, earning four points from their last two matches, keeps them in contention, but the tight race for the top five demands focus. 

De Bruyne’s contributions this season remain significant, yet Guardiola’s pragmatic approach underscores the high stakes. The Bournemouth clash is pivotal, and while fans hope to see De Bruyne shine in his Etihad farewell, the manager’s decisions will hinge on tactical needs. As City navigate this critical juncture, De Bruyne’s legacy is secure, but his final home appearance may depend on Guardiola’s relentless pursuit of victory. The football world watches closely as one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders nears the end of his storied City chapter.