Before the game, Guardiola took a moment to speak with De Bruyne, expressing his gratitude for the midfielder's contributions to the team. He said, "Let me say one thing before you go on the pitch. Kevin, thank you very much. Without you, it would not have been possible to do what we have done together with you and your teammates."

Guardiola also encouraged De Bruyne and his teammates to make the day special by achieving their goal of qualifying for the Champions League. He added, "I am sure that today we will do everything to make this day a special day, to achieve what we have to (Champions League qualification) and to play the competition that belongs to us."

City went on to win the match 2-0, securing their spot in the Champions League for the next season.