Kevin De Bruyne Confirms Departure from Manchester City: "Like It or Not, It’s Time to Say Goodbye"
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has officially announced that he will leave the club at the end of the 2024/25 season, ending a legendary decade-long spell at the Etihad Stadium.
The 33-year-old Belgian took to social media to share a heartfelt message with fans, confirming that he will not renew his contract with the reigning Premier League champions.
"Dear Manchester," De Bruyne wrote. "Seeing this, you probably realise where this is heading. So I'll get straight to it and let you all know that these will be my final months as a Manchester City player. Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes.
That day is here— and you deserve to hear it from me first. 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.
De Bruyne went on to express his deep connection with the city, club, and supporters:
Suri, Rome, Mason, Michèle, and I are beyond grateful for what this place has meant to 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, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter. Let's enjoy these last moments together!
Kevin De Bruyne joined Manchester City from VfL Wolfsburg in 2015 and has since become one of the club’s greatest ever players. Over 10 seasons, he has lifted 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2023.
He is widely regarded as one of the most creative and influential midfielders of his generation.
