The Belgian midfielder struck with another big game goal to give City an early lead in what proved an enthralling Etihad encounter, and was at his inspirational best throughout.
Ultimately, the spoils were shared with Gabriel Jesus also on target for City with Diogo Jota and Sadio Mane replying for the visitors.
And reflecting on the result, Guardiola was at pains to praise what another influential all-round display from De Bruyne.
“I like that he is a player who does not just make a lot of assists, he is scoring a lot. I told him he has to score more goals to reach another stage,” the City boss pointed out.
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“He is scoring a lot of goals and making chances, knowing the position he is playing is so difficult against Liverpool because they are so narrow. And his vision for the last pass is exceptional.
“It’s true he struggled in the first part of the season a lot with the injuries from the Champions League final and the European Championships.
“He has been at this level many times. The year we made 100 points at that level Kevin was incredible.”
Play the video to watch Guardiola’s press conference in full…
