Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola praises Kevin De Bruyne’s performance in Bournemouth thrashing

Pep Guardiola was full of praise for Kevin De Bruyne, following Manchester City's 4-0 thrashing of Bournemouth.

After playing a pivotal role in last Sunday's win over West Ham, Kevin De Bruyne once again proved to be the difference for the Cityzens, playing an impactful role against the Cherries at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

De Bruyne scored one goal and also grabbed an assist, which was more than enough for him to earn the Man of the Match award.

The Belgian exquisitely scored the Blues' third goal, skilfully firing into the far corner.

Post-match, Pep Guardiola reflected on the brilliance of De Bruyne’s performance, emphasising the spacing of his strike, as well as his assist for Phil Foden’s goal which cushioned the Blues’ lead.

“There was no space with this type of shot and it was an incredible goal,” said Guardiola.

“It was an incredible performance, the assist for Phil came from him,” the 51 year-old continued.

The Belgian’s offensive wizardry came a surprise to the City manager, as Bournemouth usually keep a tight seal on their penalty box, claimed the Blues head coach.

“Against Bournemouth it is difficult to do because they defend the box and they hold their line really well,” said Guardiola.

This tight seal may not have been all too evident during Saturday’s game, as the Cityzens broke into the Cherries’ final third within the first minute of play - managing to rally off 19 shots, with seven landing on target.

The Catalan discussed his history with De Bruyne which stems back to when the two were in the German Bundesliga, with Guardiola coaching Bayern Munich and the Belgian playing for VfL Wolfsburg.

“When I was in Munich he was in Wolfsburg and I think he was the best player in the Bundesliga.

“He was a really good player before we arrived and he will be good after us.”

Earlier this week, De Bruyne, along with five other Manchester City players, were nominated for the 2022 Men’s Ballon D’Or.

The 31 year-old was also nominated for the UEFA Men’s Player of the Year award, with the winner set to be announced later this month.

The Belgian playmaker will look to continue his streak of impressive performances next weekend, as the Premier League leaders travel to St James' Park to face a resurgent Newcastle on Tyneside.

City face Eddie Howe's side next Sunday, with the Sky Blues looking to make it three wins from three.