News wrap: De Bruyne backs Sterling, Walker unhappy, City to dominate
Kevin De Bruyne has backed Manchester City teammate Raheem Sterling to shine at the World Cup.
The England winger has been under heavy scrutiny and criticism from the English press since his transfer from Liverpool and it wouldn’t be an overstatement to say he is media enemy number one. There is nothing he can do to please the press and get them off his back.
His recent gun tattoo on his right leg didn’t do him any favors in endearing him to the press, with Sterling’s explanation of the meaning behind the tattoo has done little to stop the witch hunt. And surely enough, the media will be waiting for him to slip up in Russia and make a story of it.
De Bruyne doesn’t seem to think that it will happen though. He has come out and backed his teammate to take the World Cup by storm. De Bruyne believes Sterling has the talent and drive to make this a special tournament for both England and himself. De Bruyne talked up Sterling’s ability, mentality and focus to overcome the recent criticism and ‘light up’ the World Cup.
"“He’s a winner – any criticism he has faced in the last few weeks I know he will just ignore. At Manchester City he’s so focused on success and I know he would have the same attitude with England. He scored many goals last season, but he scored important goals too – goals that won games in the last minute – and that takes a special type of player. On the big occasions, he has the confidence – that is why I think he will light up the World Cup.” – Kevin De Bruyne"
Elsewhere, Kyle Walker has been left less than impressed with the role has been asked to play for England. Walker had a stellar first season at the Etihad driving down City’s right flank and expected to at least be playing in a similar position when he received his World Cup call-up. Southgate had other ideas though and pushed the speedster further back to play on the right side of a three man central defence.
Walker has gone as far as labeling the move ‘a step back’ saying he wanted to showcase his ability as one of the best right backs at the World’s biggest football tournament. He, however, praised Guardiola for teaching him a lot about the game and how that has allowed him to adapt to his new role.
"“I have been playing professionally since I was 18 at right-back, to get to your first World Cup and probably not playing in your preferred position where you want to showcase your talent, is not disappointing but it is like ok. It is a little bit of a step back.” – Kyle Walker"
The defender has spoken about not being comfortable in that position but believes the change to right centre back is down to Guardiola and work he achieved over the last two years.
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Another right back, Sagna has been talking to the media and backed City to dominate the Premier League and Europe in the coming years and emulate Pep’s former club Barcelona.
The former Arsenal and City player believes Pep can develop the younger stars to fulfil their potential and the biggest trophies as a team.
"“Yeah, they will (dominate) – and for a long time because they are based on young players. City are building a team for the future with players such as Raheem Sterling and Leroy Sane. Most of them are 22, 23 and they are building a team to last for the five years coming. I think they are going to achieve well. To me, they’re going to be champions for a few years in a row. I think they are even going to win the Champions League.” – Bacary Sagna."
With Pep still at the helm and the continued development of the likes of Sane, Sterling and Gabriel Jesus, winning it in the next three years seems a very likely possibility. Hopefully, the team continues growing and establish themselves as a European powerhouse.