Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne has expressed uncertainty about his future at the club, with only a year remaining on his current contract. The 33-year-old midfielder, who has been pivotal in Man City’s success, is reportedly considering options in the MLS or the Saudi Pro League, either this summer or next. De Bruyne is expected to hold discussions with Manchester City following the 2024 UEFA Euros.
Man City historically adopts a stringent approach when negotiating new contracts with players in their 30s. While the club wishes to retain De Bruyne, his age could lead to a potentially less lucrative contract offer.
Speaking to the media before Belgium’s round of 16 match against France, which Belgium lost 1-0, De Bruyne shared his thoughts on his future: “I’ve read a lot of headlines, but I haven’t spoken to anyone. I hope I can last a few more years. Everyone knows I’m under contract at City for another year. And that I haven’t talked to anyone yet. I assume there will be talks with City in the next few months. If not, I will have to look for something else. But it’s hard to say what will happen. My summer will be very quiet. I will enjoy my holidays. And then I will return to City.”
🚨 Kevin de Bruyne: “Staying at City? Yes, yes… I’ve read a lot of headlines about a transfer to Saudi Arabia, but I haven’t spoken to anyone”.
“If there’s a good offer and you tell Pep you want to leave then it is possible. This may be different at other clubs. But I have… pic.twitter.com/iyzr4B2Gn0
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 1, 2024
When asked about the financial allure of playing in Saudi Arabia, De Bruyne added, “Look, I have more than enough money. I know that well enough. If a silly amount is offered later, then that’s not for me. That’s for all my family, my friends, my children, my great-grandchildren, my children’s neighbours.”
De Bruyne joined the Citizens in 2015 for £55 million from Wolfsburg, making him the second most expensive player in British football history at the time. Despite initial skepticism from some pundits, De Bruyne has solidified his status as a City legend. Over his nine years at the Etihad, he has accumulated an impressive array of titles, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five EFL Cups, and one UEFA Champions League trophy. He has also received numerous individual accolades, such as Premier League Player of the Season twice and IFFHS Best Playmaker three times.
De Bruyne’s potential departure would mark the end of an era for Manchester City, where he has been central to their dominance in English football.
