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WHAT HAPPENED?
De Bruyne’s future at City had been subject to speculation for some time as he entered the final months of his contract. Guardiola previously expressed optimism about an extension, but recent developments indicate both De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva will leave the club this summer unless they reverse their decisions before June. De Bruyne officially announced his departure on April 4, confirming it was his last season at City, with Guardiola later clarifying it was the club’s decision to not offer a new contract. The Belgian midfielder remains open to returning to the Premier League club if suitable opportunities are not found by January.
When asked about their futures, Guardiola stated, “The decision has been made, nothing has gone wrong or right—it is how it is. Nothing is signed. They have the opportunity to be here a long time and make history, but the chance is only until January.”
Pressed on De Bruyne’s decision, Guardiola added, “It’s his decision, or their decision. Every player has their own choice. They have two good paths: to stay one more year and enhance history or move on with our best wishes for the future.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite their departures, City have expressed a desire for De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva to stay. Guardiola affirmed, “You know my answer. Of course, I’d love to keep both until the end of the season. They have the power to decide, and we’re okay with that.” While City respects their choices, De Bruyne’s departure frees up significant wages for squad investments. Reports suggest his weekly wage of £400,000 translates to £21 million annually, potentially funding future signings like Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz.
Meanwhile, City remain competitive in the Premier League, with hopes to finish with a top-four finisg. Regarding Liverpool’s resurgence, Guardiola remarked, “Liverpool will win the Premier League, I’m convinced. Their recruitment has been outstanding, and their squad is incredible. De Bruyne and Bernardo made them better, and they have been a machine for over a decade.” Liverpool are 11 points on top of the Premier League, whereas second place is held by Arsenal, coach by previous Guardiola’s assistant Mikel Arteta.
WHAT NEXT FOR PEP?
City’s next Premier League encounter is against Crystal Palace on April 12, as the team tries to overtake Chelsea who are 1 point ahead in 4th place. Man City is being closely followed by Aston Villa and Newcastle, with the latter 2 points behind and with 2 less matches played. De Bruyne is expected to play a key role in their remaining fixtures as he bids farewell to the club. His potential destinations include Saudi Arabia or MLS, but specific plans remain undisclosed.
De Bruyne leaves City as a legend, having played 413 matches, scored 106 goals, and assisted 117 times in the Premier League. He has won 19 major trophies with City, including six league titles and a Champions League. Praise for his influence extends from Guardiola to Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim, who called him “one of the best midfielders in Premier League history.” Guardiola added, “Kevin is irreplaceable. He’s part of the club’s family and one of the greatest players ever.”
