Kevin De Bruyne, the 33-year-old Belgian midfielder, has officially announced he will leave Manchester City when his contract expires at the end of the 2024/2025 season. This decision marks the conclusion of a remarkable decade-long tenure with the club.
A Storied Career at Manchester City
Since joining City from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million, De Bruyne has been instrumental in the team's success. Over ten seasons, he made 413 appearances, scored 106 goals, and provided 174 assists. His contributions have been pivotal in securing six Premier League titles and a total of 17 trophies, including the club's first Champions League title in 2023.
Expressions of Gratitude and Future Prospects
In an emotional statement, De Bruyne expressed deep appreciation for the club, his teammates, and the fans, stating that Manchester will always be home for his family.
Looking ahead, De Bruyne is considering continuing his playing career, with interest reported from Major League Soccer's San Diego FC and clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Managerial Praise and Legacy
Manager Pep Guardiola lauded De Bruyne as one of the greatest midfielders to have played in England, highlighting his significant impact on the team's achievements. Discussions are underway regarding the possibility of De Bruyne participating in the Club World Cup this summer under a short-term contract.
De Bruyne's departure signifies the end of an era for Manchester City, as they bid farewell to a player whose vision and skill have been central to their domestic and international successes.
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