Pep Guardiola surprisingly snubs Kevin De Bruyne as Man City boss names best passer he's ever seen

Ahead of Manchester City's Premier League clash against Bournemouth on May 20, Guardiola was asked if he has ever coached a player who can pass like De Bruyne. The City boss praised the Belgian as one of the top three passers he has worked with, but ultimately opted for Lionel Messi as his No.1. Indeed, De Bruyne would take second place, ahead of other exceptional midfielders like Xavi, Andres Iniesta and David Silva.

De Bruyne's departure marks the end of an era for Manchester City, especially as they close out the 2024–25 season without a trophy. Since joining from the Bundesliga in 2015, the Belgian midfielder has won 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2022-23. Replacing him is going to be a tall order, with Florian Wirtz and Morgan Gibbs-White on the shortlist as Guardiola looks to improve his squad ahead of the new campaign.

Asked if the Belgian midfielder will be difficult to replace, Guardiola said: "There are players who are really, really difficult for many reasons, we know that. But the season we have done is the season we have done - we cannot deny it. Of course we have to move forward. Kevin will get what he deserves. That is the best compliment for his incredible trajectory."

When asked about whether De Bruyne is the best passer he has ever coached, Guardiola added: "One is Messi. And the other two, let me think about it... OK, let me put Kevin second. Messi is the best I have ever seen because Messi has done it really, really close to the box. But Kevin is there... the stats, the goals, the assists – that’s unique."

Under Guardiola, De Bruyne’s stats rank among the best of his career. To date, he has averaged 0.5 assists and 3.6 chances created per 90 minutes across 258 league games, establishing himself as one of the most prolific playmakers of his generation.

After losing the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace, Guardiola will now look to rebuild the team as he aims to guide City to more trophies. For now, though, the entire club and their fanbase will look to say a proper farewell to one of their legendary players, with De Bruyne set to receive a guard of honour at full-time following their final home game against Bournemouth. His last ever City appearance should then come in his side's away clash against Fulham on May 25 and then it's decision time as to his next move, with a switch to a Premier League rival having not been ruled out.