Only Lionel Messi is better than De Bruyne, says Pep Guardiola
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has claimed that Belgian midfielder Kevin de Bruyne is second to only Lionel Messi. The former Barcelona coach has insisted that City are lucky to have him as a player after he produced a dazzling performance in their 4-0 win over Bournemouth on Saturday.
"Maybe Messi can sit alone at the table. But that table aside, Kevin can stay there.
"I think he's a special player, an outstanding player. He makes everything. Without the ball he is the first fighter and with the ball he's clear. He sees absolutely everything.
"He decides what you have to do at the right moment every time. Every time he makes the right decision. That's why he is a player at another level.
"I am lucky and we are lucky to have him. We will take care of him and I hope he will enjoy it with us to play his amazing football," Guardiola told reporters after the match, reported AFP.
The 25-year-old midfielder opened the scoring against Bournemouth and assisted City's fourth goal of the match, scored by Ilkay Gundogan, to complete a match-winning performance. With this win, their 5th this season, City have maintained their perfect start to the campaign and are currently sitting comfortably at the top of the table.