De Bruyne, unquestionably one of the greatest players in our history, announced on Friday that he would be leaving at the expiration of his contract this summer.
It will bring an end to an incredible 10-year spell with the Blues that has seen him collect 19 major honours, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, one UEFA Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup and three Community Shields.
With his final season reaching a conclusion in the next two months, Guardiola insists De Bruyne will want to steer his beloved City to a fab finale.
De Bruyne to bring curtain down on City career
“I’m pretty sure he’s committed to achieve the last important thing,” the manager told the media at his pre-match press conference.
“That’s FA Cup semi-finals to reach for the final and especially qualify for the Champions League.
“Of course he will be committed, that’s for sure.”
Next up in that quest to achieve UCL qualification is Manchester United away at Old Trafford on Sunday with a 16:30 (UK) kick-off in front of Sky Sports cameras.
In the home fixture, it was a hugely frustrating conclusion as late goals from Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo ensured derby bragging rights for United.
Asked if the nature of that loss motivated him more than normal in the search for victory this weekend, Guardiola insisted his mind was clear heading into the 196th derby between the sides.
“I forget good and bad moments quicky,” he added.
“So, when we played them we weren’t at our best and we lost so we were disappointed at the last minute when the game was almost over.”
Watch the manager’s press conference in the video player above.
