Kevin De Bruyne is reportedly ready to remain at Manchester City regardless of the possibility of missing out on Champions League football for the next two years
De Bruyne put several Europe’s top clubs on red alert during the lockdown when he admitted that he might have to consider his options if Manchester City’s European ban is upheld.
The Premier League giants will see the outcome of their appeal on Monday when the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is expected to announce the final decision.
However, Pep Guardiola can remain calm over De Bruyne’s future at the Etihad even he sees his side suspended from European competitions for the next two seasons.
According to The Sun, the Belgian playmaker has informed his friends about his desire to stay in Manchester, as his family enjoys life in England.
Pep Guardiola on De Bruyne being captain:
— Man City Report (@cityreport_) July 4, 2020
"It's a question for him. He wants to be captain when he wants to put the club and his team in front of himself. It depends on them, their personality. For sure [there is an increase in maturity], Kevin is different now." pic.twitter.com/EgoYiXxvWw
Barcelona and Real Madrid have both expressed an interest in arguably the best midfielder on the planet at the moment, but the 29-year old seems determined to continue with City.
Additionally, in the build-up to the Sky Blues’ trip to Brighton, Guardiola has challenged De Bruyne to prove his captain credentials and take the armband from David Silva next season.
“It depends on him,” the 49-year-old Spaniard said.
“The leaders decide for themselves with their behavior, how they behave on and off the pitch and the relation to the team.
“How you think for the club and the team comes naturally without force. If it comes, it will come. It depends on him and also his mates if they trust Kevin.”