Kevin De Bruyne sends Liverpool a subtle warning ahead of next season

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has sent Liverpool a subtle warning ahead of the 2022-23 Premier League campaign.

Last season, the Citizens beat the Reds to the title by a single point.

To make things worse for Liverpool, Manchester City have just secured Erling Haaland's signature.

The club signed the striker from Borussia Dortmund for a transfer fee of around £63 million. De Bruyne believes that Manchester City will grow as a team because of Haaland's arrival.

Speaking to Belgian media outlet HLN, he said: "Erling Haaland is a top striker. His move should help us to grow as a team. Everybody expects a lot. They've always been looking for a number nine, but I think it'll be good to have that striker that maybe scores 20-25 goals a season."

He added: "Maybe (Haaland's arrival might help me too). There have been years that I have more assists (than this season). But my chance creation and other things have remained consistent. Numbers are a part of football but they never tell you the full story."

Anfield Watch Verdict

We completely agree with De Bruyne. Haaland improves Manchester City.

The forward, 21, scored 86 goals in 89 appearances for Borussia Dortmund's first-team.

The aforementioned figures highlight that Manchester City have signed a generational talent.

Even without Haaland, the Citizens are a world-class team. In fact, you could argue that they are the best side in the world.

Therefore, De Bruyne has every right to be confident ahead of next season. If Liverpool are to compete for the 2022-23 Premier League title, they will have to topple Manchester City.

The Citizens have won four of the past five titles. It is scary just how good they are.