Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has announced in an emotional statement that he will be departing the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season.
For the past year, speculation has swirled about the Belgium international potentially moving to Saudi Arabia, Major League Soccer, or another overseas league.
His decision may have been influenced by Manchester City’s performances this season, as the reigning Premier League champions currently sit fifth in the table.
With only the FA Cup left as a potential trophy this season, De Bruyne has the chance to add one final title to his impressive collection at Manchester City.
During his time at the Etihad, the Belgian has played 413 matches across all competitions, scoring 106 goals and securing six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and one Champions League.
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On Friday, De Bruyne took to social media to announce his departure, stating that it was the right “time to say goodbye.”
In a heartfelt message to fans, De Bruyne wrote:
Dear Manchester, By now, you probably know where this is going. So, I’ll get straight to the point—these will be my final months as a Manchester City player.
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.
Football led me to all of you – and to this city. Chasing this 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.
Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michele, and I are all grateful for what this place has meant to our family. “Manchester” will forever be on our kids’ passports – and more importantly, in each of our hearts.
This will always be our HOME.
We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride.
Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter.
Let’s enjoy these last moments together!’
