Pep Guardiola has dismissed reports that Kevin De Bruyne may leave Manchester City this summer and has explained the reason for signing Brazil winger Savinho.
Speaking in the United States ahead of the champions’ first pre-season match tonight against Celtic at the Kenan Memorial Stadium, North Carolina, Guardiola said: “Kevin is not going”, when asked about De Bruyne’s possible sale to a Saudi Pro League club.
Media reports this week had heavily linked six-time Premier League champion De Bruyne with a move to Al Ittihad.
“If someone leaves, we're going to talk about that," he added.
As well as keeping his Belgian playmaker, Guardiola revealed that he envisages only a couple of signings, of which Savinho, who joined from Troyes last week, is one.
The City manager sees the Brazilian as a player who can have an impact on both wings. Savinho starred on loan from Troyes at LaLiga club Girona, scoring nine goals and providing 10 assists in 2023/24. His total of 104 completed dribbles was also the most in the league, 18 more than any other player.
“His impact at Girona was absolutely amazing,” Guardiola said of the 20-year-old. “He can play on the wing, and when he is one-v-one, he is devastating.
“He is young and to bring in one or two players to keep things fresh, it is necessary.”
No major squad overhaul
As City seek a fifth Premier League title in a row, Guardiola is not expecting an overhaul to his successful squad.
“We cannot change six or seven - it is impossible, it is unsustainable - we have to be smart," he said.
"Of course, until the last day, we have chances [to make transfers]. I don't rule out the option to have new players but I think there is an 85/90 per cent chance we will have the same squad.
“Many players want to come here but we didn’t get agreements from the clubs and when they ask so, so high price we don’t do it.”
City are on a four-match tour of the United States, also facing AC Milan (27 July), Barcelona (30 July) and Chelsea (3 August).
Guardiola's side face Chelsea again on Sunday 18 August, when they start their Premier League title defence at Stamford Bridge - and it is a challenge that he is relishing.
“I am really excited for this season that is coming,” he added.
“I am really happy here. Like every season I needed a break, definitely, but after that I'll recharge my batteries and I have the same energy as usual.
“I know the competition is coming and I am completely focused on that, especially for my club.”