Manchester City fans were left in shock as Kevin De Bruyne confirmed that he will be leaving the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old has been a pivotal figure in City’s recent successes, marking the end of a legendary decade at the Etihad.
An Incredible Legacy at Manchester City
Since joining from Wolfsburg, De Bruyne has been at the heart of Manchester City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola.
His remarkable achievements include winning six Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy in 2023, two FA Cups, and five Carabao Cups.
His impact has been immense, scoring 106 goals and providing 174 assists during his time at the club.
As one of the most influential players in the club’s history, De Bruyne’s contributions have cemented his place among the Premier League’s all-time greats.
Carragher’s Tribute to De Bruyne’s Legacy
As the news of De Bruyne’s departure spread, former footballer Jamie Carragher reflected on the Belgian’s remarkable career.
Carragher, speaking on Sky Sports, placed De Bruyne as one of the best foreign players ever to grace the Premier League.
“For me, he’s been the best player in the Premier League for the past four or five years,” Carragher said. “Besides Thierry Henry, I think he’s the best foreign player we’ve seen in the Premier League.”
Carragher went on to praise De Bruyne’s consistency and brilliance during City’s dominant years, highlighting how De Bruyne was often the difference-maker in tight title races.
“When City got that edge by a point or two, I felt Kevin De Bruyne was the difference,” he added.
Pep Guardiola Reflects on De Bruyne’s Impact
Pep Guardiola also shared an emotional tribute to De Bruyne, acknowledging the midfielder’s unparalleled influence at the club. “Sad day.
Happy day for the pleasure I live with him,” Guardiola said. “What he gives all of us, his humanity and influence in our success wouldn’t be possible without him. A part of us is leaving.”
Guardiola described De Bruyne as one of the greatest midfielders to ever play in the Premier League, emphasizing that the Belgian’s impact transcended the pitch.
“The doors are open for the rest of his life. Whatever he wants to do. The impact of some players transcends the pitch. He is one of them.”
A Final Trophy in Sight for De Bruyne
With the season winding down, De Bruyne could finish his tenure at Manchester City by securing yet another trophy.
City is set to face Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semi-finals on April 27 at Wembley, and De Bruyne will be aiming for his 17th major title with the club.
As De Bruyne prepares to leave, he will leave behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come, not just for his trophies, but for the way he revolutionized the midfield position in the Premier League.