Kevin De Bruyne has announced that he will leave Manchester City when his contract expires at the end of the season, bringing an end to a remarkable decade at the Etihad.
The 33-year-old midfielder, who joined City from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million, has been at the heart of the club’s golden era, winning 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2023. Despite his influence, injuries have affected his final season, limiting him to just 19 starts in all competitions.
Reflecting on his journey, De Bruyne shared an emotional farewell message to fans.
“Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter,” he wrote.
“Football led me to all of you – and to this city. Chasing my 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 beyond grateful for what this place has meant for 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, team-mates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride.”
Dear Manchester. 💙 pic.twitter.com/2EdhVYOLti
— Kevin De Bruyne (@KevinDeBruyne) April 4, 2025
Man City to Honor De Bruyne’s Legacy
Manchester City confirmed De Bruyne’s departure and revealed that they are planning a fitting tribute for the Belgian before the season concludes.
“Manchester City will bid an emotional farewell to Kevin De Bruyne this summer when his contract expires, bringing an end to a glittering 10-year period at the club,” the club stated.
“The Belgian, a global icon of the game, has played 413 matches for City.
“During that period, he has scored 106 times, making him the first City midfielder since Colin Bell to reach a century of goals.
“The club and all of our fans will now take the time to deliver a fitting tribute and farewell to one of the greatest players to ever play in the Premier League.”
A Historic Career at the Etihad
Under Pep Guardiola, who arrived a year after him, De Bruyne became one of the world’s most influential midfielders. His vision, passing, and leadership helped shape City’s identity, making them one of Europe’s most dominant teams.
His Premier League records speak volumes about his impact:
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117 assists – more than any other player since his arrival in 2015
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827 chances created – the most in the league during that period
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193 big chances created – another league-best record
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Two-time Premier League Player of the Season winner (2019-20, 2021-22)
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Joint record for most assists in a single season (20 in 2019-20, tied with Thierry Henry)
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Three-time Playmaker of the Season award winner (2017-18, 2019-20, 2022-23)
What’s Next for De Bruyne?
While the midfielder’s next move remains uncertain, he has previously expressed openness to exploring other opportunities, including a possible switch to Saudi Arabia. He also paused contract talks earlier this season while recovering from a thigh injury.
