Kevin De Bruyne has admitted to being “a bit surprised” when he was informed that his successful Manchester City career would conclude at the end of the current season.
De Bruyne recently announced his departure from the Etihad Stadium once the current campaign finishes, marking the end of a significant period for the Belgian midfielder in Manchester.
The 33-year-old joined City from German club Wolfsburg in 2015 and has played a crucial role in the club’s remarkable success under manager Pep Guardiola.
During his time at City, De Bruyne has won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and the 2023 Champions League, which completed an extraordinary treble-winning season.
Pep Guardiola suggested that the decision to end De Bruyne’s time at the club was his, citing the playmaker’s struggles with injuries and inconsistent form over the past two seasons.
Manchester City’s performance has notably declined this season, ending their four-year reign as champions and focusing on securing a Champions League qualification spot.4
However, De Bruyne confessed that he was surprised not to receive a new contract offer, as he believes he is still capable of performing at the highest level.
“I have not had any offer the whole year, they just took a decision,” he said after City’s 2-0 win at Everton on Saturday.
“Obviously, I was a bit surprised but I just have to accept it. Honestly I still think I can perform at this level like I’m showing but I understand clubs have to make decisions.
“Maybe if the team didn’t struggle and I came back like I did this year and bedded in like normal then maybe they take another decision.”
De Bruyne stated that he has not yet decided on his future, as his current focus is on ensuring Manchester City finishes in the top five to extend their Champions League participation for a 15th consecutive season.
While he has been linked with potential moves to Major League Soccer in the United States, he has not dismissed the possibility of remaining in the Premier League or joining another major European club.
“I feel like I still have a lot to give. Obviously I know I’m not 25 any more but I still feel like I can do my job,” he said.
“I’m open for anything. I have to look at the whole picture. I’m looking at sporting, family, everything together, what makes the most sense for me and my family.
“I like to compete. That’s what I feel so I can’t say that I want to quit because I still feel that whenever I’m in training I want to beat the guys.
“I feel like I’m doing really well and that’s why I’ve also played a lot lately.”
Following Manchester City’s win at Goodison Park on Saturday, Kevin De Bruyne received applause as he left the pitch, his performance standing out as a positive aspect in what was otherwise another somewhat inconsistent display from the team.
“It’s something really rare to come out and get an applause from another team so I just want to say thank you to them. I think they appreciate the way that I play,” he said.
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