Kevin de Bruyne, the iconic Belgian midfielder, has recently announced his decision to part ways with Manchester City at the end of the current season. This news comes after a successful tenure at the club, during which de Bruyne has amassed an impressive collection of 16 trophies since his arrival from Wolfsburg in 2015. Among these accolades are six Premier League titles and the coveted Champions League trophy, which the club secured in 2023.
Throughout his time at Manchester City, de Bruyne has been a pivotal figure on the pitch, scoring a total of 106 goals in 413 appearances across all competitions. Despite his contributions to the team’s success, the 33-year-old midfielder has seen limited playing time this season, starting just 19 matches.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, de Bruyne expressed his gratitude to the club, the city of Manchester, and its people for the unforgettable moments and experiences he has had during his time at the Etihad Stadium. He acknowledged the support and love he has received from fans, teammates, and staff, emphasizing the special place that Manchester will always hold in his heart and that of his family.
Manchester City, on the other hand, has announced plans to honor de Bruyne with a “fitting tribute” before his departure, recognizing his immense contribution to the club over the past decade. Describing him as a “global icon of the game,” City lauded de Bruyne’s achievements, including reaching the milestone of 100 goals as a midfielder, a feat not achieved since Colin Bell.
De Bruyne’s journey at Manchester City began in 2015 when he joined the club for a fee of £55 million from Wolfsburg. Under the guidance of manager Pep Guardiola, he evolved into a versatile and dynamic midfielder, playing a key role in the team’s success, culminating in their historic Champions League triumph in 2023.
Despite facing injury challenges in recent seasons, de Bruyne’s impact on the Premier League has been undeniable. He holds records for the most assists, chances created, and big chances created since his arrival in 2015. Additionally, he has received multiple accolades, including two Premier League player of the season awards and three Premier League playmaker awards.
As de Bruyne prepares to bid farewell to Manchester City and embark on a new chapter in his career, his legacy as one of the greatest players to grace the Premier League will undoubtedly endure. His departure marks the end of an era at the Etihad Stadium, but his contributions and achievements will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
