Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has announced he will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the current season, bringing an end to a highly successful 10-year spell at the Etihad Stadium. The 33-year-old Belgian confirmed his decision on social media on Friday, April 4th.
De Bruyne joined City from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million and became a central figure in the club’s most dominant era, winning 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League. He made 413 appearances, scoring 106 goals – the first City midfielder since Colin Bell to reach a century – and holds numerous Premier League records for assists and chances created.
“Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter,” De Bruyne wrote. “Football led me to all of you – and to this city… This city. This club. These people gave me everything. I had no choice but to give everything back. And guess what – we won everything… Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye.” He expressed deep gratitude to the club, city, staff, teammates, and fans for the “10-year ride.”
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola paid tribute, calling De Bruyne “one of the greatest midfielders to ever play in this country” and comparing his impact to club legends Vincent Kompany, Sergio Aguero, and David Silva. “A sad day but a happy day for the fact that I had the pleasure personally to live this time with him,” Guardiola said. “What he gave us… with his humanity and his influence in our success… Of course, part of us is leaving… The doors are open here for the rest of his life. He’s part of this family, this club.”
City confirmed they are planning a “fitting tribute” for the player described as a “global icon of the game.”
De Bruyne’s departure comes after recent struggles with injuries. He missed nearly five months of last season and has started just 19 matches in the current campaign. Contract negotiations were paused while he recovered from a thigh injury sustained in September.
His contract expires at the end of June, creating uncertainty about his potential participation in the knockout stages of the FIFA Club World Cup, which takes place in June and July. Guardiola indicated the decision rests with De Bruyne whether to sign a short extension or utilize new FIFA rules allowing temporary registration solely for the tournament.
De Bruyne, who also earned 109 caps for Belgium, leaves Manchester City as one of its most decorated and influential players.
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