Kevin De Bruyne has spoken candidly for the first time about Manchester City’s decision not to renew his contract, revealing his surprise and disappointment at how events unfolded. The 33-year-old midfielder, who has been a cornerstone of City’s success over the past decade, confirmed that he will be leaving the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
De Bruyne, who joined City from Wolfsburg in 2015, has made 416 appearances, scored 107 goals, and registered 177 assists second only to Ryan Giggs in Premier League history. Despite his enduring impact on the pitch, the Belgian revealed that he received no contract offer during the season and was informed in a brief meeting with Director of Football Txiki Begiristain and CEO Ferran Soriano that the club would not be extending his deal.
“There was definitely a bit of shock,” De Bruyne admitted following City’s 2-0 win at Everton. “I hadn’t had any offer all year, and then I was told the decision had already been made. It’s hard to take, but I have to accept it.”
Though Pep Guardiola had input in the decision, he was not present at the meeting. De Bruyne acknowledged that the situation left him struggling emotionally, especially as his family were away on holiday when the news broke. “It wasn’t a great time. But once I made it public, I felt some relief. I could focus again on playing football.”
De Bruyne believes he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. “I know I’m not 25 anymore, but I still feel like I can do my job well,” he said. “I’ve been playing regularly again, and my performances show I can still compete.”
While City’s form this season has been mixed, De Bruyne hinted that the team’s collective struggles may have influenced the club’s decision. “Maybe if the team wasn’t struggling, things might have gone differently. But I can only focus on what I can control.”
Now a free agent this summer, De Bruyne is keeping all options open. He has been linked with a move to MLS, the Saudi Pro League, and even other Premier League clubs. “I’ll consider everything sporting reasons, family, lifestyle. It has to make sense for us,” he said. “I just love to play football. I want to keep going.”
If he doesn’t feature in the upcoming Club World Cup, his final appearance for City could come in the FA Cup Final or the final Premier League match against Bournemouth. Regardless of when he bows out, De Bruyne will leave as the last remaining pre-Guardiola player and one of the greatest to wear the City shirt marking the end of an extraordinary era.
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