Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has officially announced his departure from the club, bringing an end to a historic 12-year spell at the Etihad Stadium.
The Belgian international confirmed the news following City’s 3–1 win over Aston Villa on Saturday, a match that served as an emotional farewell for one of the club’s greatest-ever players.
De Bruyne, 33, has been instrumental in Manchester City’s domestic and European dominance over the past decade, winning five Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the club’s first-ever UEFA Champions League trophy in 2023. Known for his world-class vision, passing range, and leadership, De Bruyne leaves behind a legacy that will be difficult to match.
“I came here as a young player wanting to prove myself. I leave now with memories I could never have imagined,” De Bruyne said in a post-match address to fans. “Manchester will always be a part of me.”
While no immediate details were provided regarding his next move, sources close to the player suggest De Bruyne is considering a return to Belgian football with KRC Genk or a move to the United States’ Major League Soccer, with multiple clubs are reportedly interested in the player.
A Historic Final Game
Saturday’s fixture was marked by tributes and emotional moments. In the 89th minute, De Bruyne scored a stunning free kick—his final goal in a Manchester City shirt—prompting a standing ovation from all corners of the Etihad. After the final whistle, teammates, opponents, and fans alike joined in saluting the midfielder’s extraordinary career.
Club manager Pep Guardiola, who coached De Bruyne for the majority of his time at City, praised the midfielder’s influence both on and off the pitch.
“Kevin is irreplaceable,” Guardiola said. “He’s not just one of the best players I’ve ever coached—he’s one of the best people. We are grateful for everything he’s given us.”
End of an Era
De Bruyne arrived at Manchester City from VfL Wolfsburg in 2015 for a then-club-record fee of £55 million. Over his 12 seasons, he made 417 appearances for the club, scoring 102 goals and providing 168 assists across all competitions.
The club has confirmed plans to erect a statue of De Bruyne outside the Etihad, alongside existing tributes to Vincent Kompany and David Silva.
Manchester City are expected to begin the search for a replacement in the summer transfer window, with speculation already linking them to several emerging midfield talents across Europe.
What’s Next?
As fans come to terms with the departure of a club legend, questions remain about De Bruyne’s next step. Wherever he lands, one thing is certain: Kevin De Bruyne leaves Manchester City as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation, and his legacy at the club is firmly cemented.
FIVE MAJOR HIGHLIGHT OF KEVIN DE BRUYNE AT MANCHESTER CITY
1. Winning the Champions League (2023)
After years of near-misses, De Bruyne helped lead Manchester City to their first-ever UEFA Champions League title in 2023. Though he was subbed off due to injury in the final against Inter Milan, his influence throughout the campaign—including clutch assists and commanding performances—was vital to City’s historic treble-winning season.
2. 2020–21 PFA Player of the Year (Back-to-Back Wins)
De Bruyne won the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award twice in a row (2020 and 2021)—a rare feat. In the 2019–20 season, he equaled Thierry Henry’s Premier League assist record with 20 assists, putting him in elite company.
3. The Iconic Goal vs. Chelsea (2022)
In a massive top-of-the-table clash at the Etihad, De Bruyne curled in a stunning winner from outside the box against his former club Chelsea in January 2022. The goal, a perfect blend of power and precision, all but sealed the title race in City’s favor that season.
4. The 2017–18 Centurion Season
De Bruyne was the creative engine behind City’s 100-point Premier League season under Pep Guardiola. His passing, control, and intelligence in midfield were key as City broke records left and right, including most wins, most goals, and biggest title-winning margin.
5. Four-Assists Masterclass vs. Wolves (2022)
In a single game against Wolves in May 2022, De Bruyne scored four goals, including a hat-trick with his weaker foot in just 24 minutes—the fastest hat-trick by any City player in Premier League history. It was an outrageous solo performance and one of the finest individual games of his career.
