Pep: It will be hard to say goodbye to Kevin | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola admits saying farewell to Kevin De Bruyne will be difficult and emotional.

After nine years of working together, the City boss says he has a special relationship with the Belgian playmaker that is on a similar level to the one he had with Sergio Aguero.

Pep also added that he, the players and the supporters will look to enjoy the last couple of months with KDB, but it will be the end of wonderful era together.

Asked about the conversation he had with Kevin about his decision to move on this summer, Pep said: “We spoke days ago about it. It was nice. We've always had a special relationship.

“Kevin is a special person and player. [Players like Kevin are treated] in a special way and we had conversations, of course.

“How many games, meetings, training, food and bad moments [have we shared]? Hugs and shouts - he's been involved for a decade and except for holidays, we were together.

“Now it'll be over - come on, we will not be, not affected - it’s an emotional moment like with Sergio.

“We will continue and there are players who have helped make the Club like it is right now. Emotions are involved because they give us too much.

“All the strikers have benefited from Kevin's talent.

“180 goals and assists is huge, but of course we are going to enjoy the last two months together – but emotionally, it’s tough. It's difficult.”

Guardiola also says he is unsure whether KDB will be part of this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.

The City legend is yet to confirm whether he will be available for what would be a high-profile swansong in the tournament that begins in June.

“It’s a good question I don’t know.,” said Pep. “He has to decide, it's a new competition. I hope he can continue to play football in another place, but it depends on risk and contracts for the future.

“I don’t know. The Club has to talk to him, and he has to say what he wants to do.”

Asked if it could provide a fitting end to Kevin’s Manchester City career, the boss added: “Of course, but I don’t know, Kevin has to tell us if it can be possible or not.”

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