Kevin De Bruyne, the warhorse midfielder for powerhouse Manchester City, just dropped a massive bombshell. He joined that club in 2003 and will depart the club at the end of this season. The news follows the announcement that his contract will not be renewed at the end of June. De Bruyne, at 33 years old, has had an incredible career. He is as integral as any player on that team to Manchester City’s constant success since joining the side from Wolfsburg in 2015.
Since arriving at the club, De Bruyne has won an astonishing 14 major trophies. This includes out of a possible six Premier League titles. He toasted his latest victory with a second UEFA Champions League triumph in 2023. This victory represented a historic accomplishment for both him and the team. De Bruyne is known throughout the football world for his elite playmaking ability. His 118 assists in the Premier League make him the second all-time best provider of assists in the league, only behind Ryan Giggs.
In an emotional farewell post on social media, De Bruyne opened up about leaving and his experiences at home with the national team. Looking back on his experience and the ways in which Manchester City has changed his life and career.
“Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here – and you deserve to hear it from me first,” – Kevin De Bruyne.
Kevin De Bruyne’s accomplishments extend far beyond the silverware. He has been recognized as the players’ player of the year in back-to-back seasons, capturing this coveted accolade in both the 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 campaigns. His managerial output has proven to be the key ingredient in Manchester City’s rise to English football supremacy over the last decade.
De Bruyne gave his very emotional goodbye message. He conveyed sincere thanks for all the encouragement and help he was given while at the club. In doing so, he paid tribute to the city and its residents, saying.
“Football led me to all of you – and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This City. This club. These people … gave me EVERYTHING. I had no choice but to give EVERYTHING back! And guess what – we won everything.” – Kevin De Bruyne.
He ended his address by pondering the meaning of endings, saying,
“Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter.” – Kevin De Bruyne.
Manchester City is preparing for life after De Bruyne. Fans and teammates alike will definitely miss the impact he has had. His legacy of THFC remains solid. He will be remembered as one of its greatest players.
