After a recent slump by his own standards, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola wants Kevin De Bruyne to get back to the basics in order to find his best form again.

Due to recent illness, the two-time Premier League Player of the Season missed two games and has not played as vivaciously and actively as usual.

The Belgian struggled to make an impression against Newcastle United in Saturday's 2-0 victory, occasionally turning the ball, and was eventually substituted by Bernardo Silva just before the hour.

De Bruyne had a spectacular goal in City's 3-0 FA Cup victory over Bristol City last week, showing some form, but Guardiola claimed the first half was "passive" from him.

"Kevin, always the standards of Kevin are the sky," Guardiola said.

"Everyone knows his level. In one week he has an opportunity to show his quality, delighted for the victory we had, this is what we have to do. Come back to principles, work hard.

"Everything will come back without any effort. Just do it your usual quality, your best."

De Bruyne has scored four goals and provided 12 assists in the Premier League this season, with City sitting second, five points behind Arsenal.

That touch from @PhilFoden! 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/NfWIdR0RFB— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 5, 2023

City have a rare midweek break with no games scheduled, allowing Guardiola's players an opportunity to rest and recover prior to Saturday's league trip to Crystal Palace, before hosting RB Leipzig in their Champions League last-16 second leg.

Guardiola underlined the importance of both games to their season.

"We prepare good for the game against Crystal Palace, always was really difficult for us," Guardiola said.

"And, of course, Leipzig, I have the same opinion that I had when we played them and after Burnley with Vinnie will come back here before the international break.

"If we are able to win the games, we are still alive in three competitions and that last part we will be there. If we lose, we will be out. Simple as that.

"Arrive in a stage when you are there that you know exactly when you lose games you lose competitions. Now is the moment that is going to happen."

Bernardo bagging our 1000th goal at home in the @premierleague! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/PV55uVlAWG— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 4, 2023