"That's why the haters do it" - Pep Guardiola hits back at criticism of Kevin De Bruyne in 2015

When Manchester City decided to fork out a £55 million fee to sign Kevin De Bruyne in 2015, there was no shortage of critics.

Considering the Belgian’s ill-fated spell at Chelsea, many felt that he was doomed to fail upon his return in the Premier League.

Furthermore, several sceptics held the opinion that the pressure of being a club-record signing would only make things worse for the former Wolfsburg talisman.

However, it would be an understatement to suggest that the 31-year-old has put each and every doubt to bed in resounding fashion.

With four Premier League titles, two PFA Player of the Year awards, and 147 goal contributions in the division to his name, conversations around Kevin De Bruyne possibly being the greatest ever midfielder to grace English football have been had.

As the now-Sky Blues vice-captain completed seven years at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has discussed the player’s overwhelmingly successful spell at the club so far.

“It was a really good signing for City, many, many years has done brilliantly since then.

"Before I knew it from Germany, I suffered him for Bayern vs Wolfsburg.

"Delighted how he's performed in this time," he said in his press conference ahead of Manchester City’s upcoming match against Nottingham Forest.

The Catalan manager was also quizzed about his thoughts on the criticism around the decorated midfielder’s signing back in 2015.

“Everyone is open to talk and say their opinion, you have to accept.

"Maybe people didn't know him, that's why the haters are open to do it.

"He was calm to do a job on the pitch,” he explained.

Considering Pep Guardiola has worked alongside Kevin De Bruyne for six years, he was also questioned about what makes the former Genk academy graduate such a key figure in sky blue.

“Switch on the TV, see how he plays defines him perfectly.

"His incredible talent, work ethic, commitment for the club for his mates.

"He's vice- captain. No doubts, you have to watch what they do.”

Once again, this season, Kevin De Bruyne has begun proceedings on fire.

With one goal and three assists in four league matches already this term, the Manchester City legend is expected to be one of the catalysts behind the club’s aim to defend their league crown for the third time running.