WATCH: Pep Guardiola reveals why he’s ‘UPSET and GRUMPY’ with Kevin De Bruyne after Man City’s dramatic win

Pep Guardiola shares his insights on De Bruyne's return.

WATCH: Pep Guardiola reveals why he’s ‘UPSET and GRUMPY’ with Kevin De Bruyne after Man City’s dramatic win

(L) Kevin De Bruyne (R) Pep Guardiola. (Source: The Independant/ Screenshot from SkySports)

During his post-match press conference after Manchester City‘s win over Newcastle United, Pep Guardiola was in full spirits. He exuberated it with a hilarious response on being asked about Kevin De Bruyne‘s match performance on his return to Premier League football after over 5 months of injury recovery.

Pep replied ironically, 

I’m so UPSET and GRUMPY with him! Because of the free-kick, and he didn't score that goal!
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This came with a smirk on his face as, in reality, De Bruyne ended up marking a sensational return to the top flight. The Belgian Maestro went onto the pitch and completely changed the game by the hook of it.

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He scored the equalizer, which motivated his teammates, and then assisted the winner in injury time to City’s young talent Oscar Bobb. Bobb displayed mature control and skill to finish the ball past the keeper, displaying his composure in front of goal even at such a young age. De Bruyne’s return was nothing short of extraordinary, as it was highly anticipated by fans worldwide.

I had the feeling that he wasn't ready for 90 minutes because he's been out - everyone was saying, 'OK, he can play, he can play'.

This statement reflected Pep Guardiola’s cautious approach, considering De Bruyne’s recent absence and the need to manage his return strategically. It also comes in the light after he registered an assist just seventeen minutes on the pitch against Huddersfield. Where he again showcased his ability as a super substitute.

Jack Grealish is at a loss of words for Kevin De Bruyne’s return

Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne received high praise from teammate Jack Grealish, who dubbed him the ‘GOAT’ (Greatest of All Time) after an exceptional return to Premier League action. De Bruyne made a significant impact in City’s 3-2 comeback win against Newcastle United.

Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish
Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish. (Source: Goal.com)

The Belgian maestro showcased his brilliance by scoring an impressive equalizer in the 74th minute. He then set up Oscar Bobb with a perfect pass for the decisive 91st-minute winner. Grealish expressed his awe on Instagram, reposting a photo of De Bruyne with the caption,

Honestly... Never seen anything like it in my life. The goat.

The 32-year-old midfielder’s return to league action marked a triumphant comeback after being sidelined since August 2023 due to a hamstring injury. De Bruyne started the match against Newcastle on the bench. He entered the game in the 69th minute as a substitute for Bernardo Silva. With City’s next fixture scheduled for January 26 in the FA Cup. It is in the fourth round against Tottenham Hotspur. The anticipation builds as fans await to see if De Bruyne will secure a starting role in this crucial tie following his impactful return.

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