Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has revealed that he expects Liverpool to challenge for the Premier League title this year, according to a report on BBC Sport.
The Belgian international playmaker was left on the bench by Pep Guardiola as the reigning champions began their title defence with a comfortable 0-2 victory over Arsenal at the Emirates.
City were an irresistible force last season and broke numerous records on their way to winning the title comfortably, but De Bruyne is expecting a tougher ride this season.
The midfielder believes that the spending of Liverpool in the summer transfer window gives them a good chance of winning the league. He said:
The main focus is on us. The other teams are always going to push us, Liverpool did what we did last year. They have spent a lot of money but wisely.
They needed some additions and they have got them in the right places. They saw that they had to up the level to come closer to us and we are trying to maintain what we have done last year. It will be a good battle between the top sides.
City weren’t at their sparkling best against the Gunners but still came away with the three points, whilst Liverpool thumped West Ham United 4-0 at Anfield.
