Kevin De Bruin officially confirmed that he will leave Manchester City at the end of the season, ending a decade-long chapter redefines the role of the club and modern midfielder. The 33-year-old announced his departure in an emotional message posted on social media on Friday morning.
“This will always be our home,” De Bruin wrote in a heartfelt breakup in recognition of the deep bond between his family and the city of Manchester. “I can’t thank the city, clubs, staff, teammates, friends and family enough to ride for the last 10 years. Everything is over, but this was definitely the best chapter.”
An era of unparalleled success
Since joining City in 2015, De Bruyne has been at the heart of the club’s most successful era in history. His decade at Etihad saw him lift 19 amazing major trophies, including:
- Six Premier League titles
- Two FA Cups
- 5 League Cup
- 1 UEFA Champions League
- 1 FIFA Club World Cup
- 1 UEFA Super Cup
- Three Community Shields
His creativity, leadership and consistency have led to individual acclaim, including two Premier League players at the Season Awards and most assists at the three playmakers at the Season title.
A heritage written in numbers
The statistical impact of De Bruyne was historical. In his 280 Premier League appearances, he streamed:
- 70 goals
- 118 Assist – Ryan Giggs, second in Premier League history, only (162)
His influence has grown far beyond the numbers. On the pitch, he was Guardiola’s soccer vision orchestrator. Then he was quiet but the leader of the commander.
Pep’s compliment: “Forever part of the city’s family.”
Speaking to the media shortly after the announcement, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola provided an emotional homage to the longtime mid-gen.
“There’s no doubt he’s one of the greatest midfielders he’s played for this country and this club,” Guardiola said. “His assists, goals, his final third vision – it’s very difficult to trade it. Kevin’s influence transcends everything he’s done on the pitch.”
Guardiola also revealed that de Bruin will always be welcome at the club, regardless of where his post-play career takes him.
“The door is open for the rest of his life. He is part of the club’s family.”
Personal goodbye
In his farewell message, De Bruin spoke not only as a footballer, but also as a father and husband, adopting Mancunian.
“Manchester will forever be part of our children’s passports, and more importantly, in each of our hearts,” he writes. “Let’s enjoy these final moments together!”
As City pursues yet another league title, fans will be able to taste every remaining moment of Sky Blue Debruin.
What’s next?
Manchester City is now preparing for life without the iconic No. 17. But for now it’s a push for the current title, a proper send-off of the legend that gave it all and won it all.
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