Kevin De Bruyne makes major hint over his future at Manchester City as he heads into final few months of contract
Kevin De Bruyne has given the biggest indication yet that he'll depart Manchester City next summer. The Belgian superstar has just seven months left on his contract at the Etihad.
The Cityzens have yet to hold talks with De Bruyne about a new deal, and speculation is growing over his future. He's been linked with the Saudi Pro League and the MLS.
Kevin De Bruyne spoke about his contract situation ahead of City's UEFA Champions League encounter with Feyenoord. He said (via Sky Sports):
"If there's no talks, It will be my last year at the club."
Reports in October claimed Saudi giants Al-Nassr had stepped up efforts to sign De Bruyne. Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Alami are eager to bring the Belgian playmaker to Al-Awwal Park.
Once his contract expires in June next year, the 33-year-old will have been at Manchester City for a decade. He's been pivotal in Pep Guardiola's successful reign, helping the team win 18 major trophies.
The veteran midfielder has ran into injury issues in recent years including this season. He's missed nine of City's games due to a hamstring problem but made substitute appearances in defeats to Brighton & Hove Albion (2-1) and Tottenham Hotspur (4-0).
Pep Guardiola suggested Kevin De Bruyne will want to leave Manchester City if no longer a key player
Guardiola also hinted at De Bruyne leaving Manchester City next summer by pointing out how he might have to hand him a more withdrawn role. He said (via The Sun):
"He will want to finish here after this season or the next one, at his best. I don’t think he will be here when he doesn’t feel he can be the Kevin that can produce and help the team like he has done in the last decade."
City have seen many legends leave while at the top of their game including David Silva in August 2020. Guardiola added:
"In these kind of situations — like with David Silva — he will decide the best for him and the team. It’s maybe not playing every three days for 11 months but I’m pretty sure he has to play as the best Kevin as possible. Unfortunately with injuries he could not deliver that."
De Bruyne arrived at the Etihad from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £54 million. He's made 391 appearances, posting 103 goals and 170 assists.
