Emotional Goodbye? What Man City Reportedly Told De Bruyne Before He Walked Away
Kevin De Bruyne’s glittering chapter at Manchester City is fast approaching its conclusion. After ten unforgettable years at the Etihad Stadium, the iconic Belgian midfielder is preparing to bring the curtain down on his time in Manchester when his contract expires at the end of the current season.
At 33 years old, De Bruyne has decided that the time is right to seek a new challenge. While he has yet to formally announce where he will go next, his decision marks the end of an era at City – one filled with breathtaking performances, numerous titles, and a legacy that places him among the greatest players in the club’s history.
Determined to go out on a high, De Bruyne remains committed to City’s cause for the remainder of the campaign. He is eyeing a strong finish by helping Pep Guardiola’s side secure Champions League qualification and potentially lifting the club’s eighth FA Cup when they step out at Wembley in May.
Praise from Premier League Legends
Following his commanding display in Manchester City’s recent victory over Crystal Palace, De Bruyne received high praise from footballing legends. Alan Shearer, speaking after the match, lauded the Belgian’s performance, which he said underlined his enduring quality and love for the club. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, De Bruyne showed that he still has what it takes to dominate at the top level.
Fellow pundit Ian Wright weighed in on the situation, offering insight into the mindset behind De Bruyne’s decision. According to Wright, while City would likely have been eager to retain their midfield maestro, the final call seems to have come from the player himself.
“I think it’s probably his decision. The club would probably keep him,” Wright explained on The Kelly and Wrighty Show. “He must be drained and finished now. This is an opportunity for him to go.”
Wright drew comparisons between De Bruyne and Kyle Walker, who left City on loan to AC Milan during the January transfer window. While Walker’s long-term future is still up in the air, it is widely believed that his days at City are also over. Wright suggested that both players may be feeling the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level year after year.
“Man City probably said to him, ‘just stay and shepherd it through,’ but I think Kevin, like Kyle, feels that it’s time to move on,” Wright continued. “They’ve given everything to this club, and maybe now they’re just done physically and mentally in this situation.”
De Bruyne Still Has Plenty to Offer – And Admirers Across the Globe
Despite speculation about retirement or winding down, De Bruyne’s recent performances indicate he still has much to offer on the pitch. Ian Wright even noted that the Belgian remains underrated by some, and wherever he ends up next, Wright believes football fans should keep a close eye on him.
De Bruyne himself has hinted that he’s not ruling out staying in England beyond this season. Speaking after the Palace match, he said that remaining in the Premier League could be an option. This has sparked wild speculation, with pundits such as Don Hutchison floating the idea of a sensational move to Liverpool – though that seems highly unlikely given the rivalry and history between the two clubs.
More realistically, De Bruyne is expected to weigh up offers from a host of European giants before making his final decision. According to The Times’ Paul Hirst, the midfielder will consider all options presented to him across Europe, but there’s growing belief that he may take his talents outside the continent.
A New Chapter in the United States?
The strongest interest so far appears to be coming from across the Atlantic and the Middle East. Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham and home to global icon Lionel Messi, is reportedly very keen on securing De Bruyne’s signature. A move to Major League Soccer would not only allow De Bruyne to continue playing in a competitive environment but also form a mouthwatering partnership with Messi – something fans around the world would relish.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian clubs are also monitoring the situation closely and are expected to present lucrative offers. However, De Bruyne is believed to prefer a move to the United States over the Middle East, making MLS his most likely destination after he departs the Etihad.
Regardless of where he goes next, one thing is certain – Manchester City supporters will forever hold De Bruyne in the highest regard. His incredible vision, passing ability, leadership, and loyalty have made him one of the defining figures of the Guardiola era.
As the curtain begins to fall on his time at Manchester City, fans will savour every remaining moment with their midfield magician, knowing they may never see another quite like him.
