Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has clarified the reason for substituting Kevin De Bruyne during their team’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday.
De Bruyne was substituted during his team’s 1-1 draw with Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday.
The Belgian midfielder was taken off with just over 20 minutes remaining at Anfield.
He appeared frustrated by the substitution and was later seen talking to Guardiola about it while sitting on the bench.
Guardiola explained that he decided to bring on Mateo Kovacic instead to help his team maintain possession.
Asked about De Bruyne’s frustration, Guardiola told Sky Sports: “That is good. Have a chance next game to prove it. We need a player who keeps the ball. It’s not about pressing. Kovacic is really good at that.
“We were happy with Kevin. It’s not a problem. We’re fine.”
