Pep Guardiola Identifies Kevin De Bruyne’s Successor
Pep Guardiola Identifies Kevin De Bruyne’s Successor
Potential replacement for Kevin De Bruyne, according to reports from sportal.bg.
Pep Guardiola, sees Wirtz as the ideal successor to De Bruyne, who, at almost 34 years of age, no longer wields the same influence over the Citizens’ gameplay as he once did.
The Belgian playmaker has struggled to maintain his peak form, prompting City to explore options for the future.
Florian Wirtz: The Rising Star of German Football
Wirtz, who will turn 22 on 3 May, has been in scintillating form this season, playing a key role in Bayer Leverkusen’s campaign that ended Bayern Munich’s long-standing dominance in the Bundesliga.
His technical prowess, agility, and vision make him one of the most exciting young midfielders in European football.
City are reportedly preparing a bid in the region of €100 million to secure Wirtz’s services.
The German midfielder remains under contract with Leverkusen until the summer of 2027, meaning the Bundesliga club holds strong negotiating power.
De Bruyne’s Declining Influence
While Wirtz has registered an impressive tally of 15 goals and 12 assists in 35 appearances this season, De Bruyne has managed only nine goal contributions (3 goals and 6 assists), highlighting a dip in his once-exceptional form.
Once regarded as the best midfielder in England, De Bruyne’s recent struggles have raised questions about his long-term future at the Etihad.
With Guardiola aiming to refresh his squad, Wirtz could be the marquee signing that ensures City continue to dominate both domestically and in Europe.
However, negotiations with Leverkusen will not be straightforward, given the German club’s reluctance to part ways with their star midfielder before his contract expires.
City’s European Ambitions
Manchester City’s need for reinforcements became even more evident following their recent 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16.
With Kylian Mbappé scoring a hat-trick, City struggled to impose themselves, reinforcing the need for fresh energy in midfield.
Guardiola will be hoping that Wirtz can bring the dynamism and creativity that City need to stay ahead of their rivals.
Whether Leverkusen will sanction a move remains to be seen, but the Premier League champions appear determined to secure their next midfield maestro.
