Guardiola Envisions Dynamic Duo: De Bruyne and Foden Echo Barcelona Greats

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In a triumphant comeback for Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s maestro, Pep Guardiola draws parallels between De Bruyne and Phil Foden, envisioning their partnership akin to the legendary Barcelona duo Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta. The Manchester City boss expressed his joy at De Bruyne’s return from a five-month injury hiatus.

De Bruyne marked his long-awaited return against Huddersfield Town in an FA Cup match on Sunday, showcasing his impact by claiming an assist within 17 minutes. Phil Foden, in fine form, contributed with two exceptional goals, supported by Julian Alvarez and Oscar Bobb finding the net.

Guardiola, delighted with the midfield synergy between De Bruyne and Foden, stated, “Always I am a big fan first of the talent, so why can’t their talent be joined together? When I was in Barcelona, people used to say, ‘No, Xavi and Iniesta – these guys cannot play together’ and I said, why not? Why not? They are good, they are intelligent and smart.”

The Manchester City manager believes in the compatibility of their talents, emphasizing that the notion that such talented players cannot defend is a misconception.

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Expressing his happiness at De Bruyne’s return, Guardiola acknowledged the importance of key players like De Bruyne, Haaland, and Foden in securing victories for the team. He highlighted the mutual respect between De Bruyne and the fans, stating that it will endure.

While expressing joy at De Bruyne’s return, Guardiola assured that the player’s comeback would be carefully managed, avoiding undue pressure. He commended De Bruyne’s special qualities, particularly his ability to make crucial passes and find players making runs behind the opposition’s defense.

In conclusion, Guardiola emphasized the positive impact of having De Bruyne back in the squad, underlining the Belgian’s role in enhancing the team’s performance in various aspects.

-IANS

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