Key Takeaway: Kevin De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City is being handled with unprecedented care, as the club considers offering him a path within the City Football Group (CFG) when his playing days at the Etihad come to an end.
Details: When it comes to their legends, Manchester City has a history of making tough calls. Sergio Aguero? Let go despite being the club’s all-time leading scorer. Ilkay Gundogan? Offered a one-year deal when he wanted two. Joe Hart? Moved on without ceremony. But Kevin De Bruyne is rewriting that script.
So… Unlike past City legends; Sergio Aguero, Ilkay Gundogan, and Joe Hart—who were shown the door at pragmatic moments—De Bruyne’s legacy is being treated differently. With just six months left on his current deal, the 33-year-old has the luxury of deciding not only if he’ll stay at City but potentially where he’d like to go within CFG’s global network.
The Belgian star is recovering from injuries that sidelined him for months and has postponed contract talks until he’s fully fit. He recently stated there’s no rush to make a decision, emphasizing his focus on returning to peak form. City appear content to wait, offering De Bruyne the respect and flexibility befitting one of their greatest players.
Pep Guardiola dismissed rumors of a rift between the two, sarcastically saying:
“No, I don’t want Kevin to play. The guy with the most talent in the final third? I don’t want him. I have a personal problem with him after nine years together.”
City’s offer to keep De Bruyne within CFG could include roles at sister clubs like New York City FC or Melbourne City FC, giving him an option to transition into coaching or other off-pitch roles. This approach highlights City’s commitment to maintaining a relationship with one of the Premier League’s all-time great midfielders.
Citations & Quotes:
“I just want to play football. I don’t feel uncomfortable in my situation. There’s no rush,” De Bruyne said recently, underscoring his calm approach to contract discussions.
Pep Guardiola’s witty rebuttal to pundits’ rift rumors demonstrated his strong support for the Belgian midfielder.
Keep in mind: De Bruyne’s legacy at Manchester City is already cemented, but how he handles his fitness and performances over the next six months could determine whether his future lies at the Etihad, another CFG club, or beyond. City’s respect for him sets a new benchmark for how clubs treat their legends.
