Kevin De Bruyne will leave Manchester City after nine remarkable years. The Belgian midfielder won 19 major trophies and established himself as one of the Premier League’s greatest playmakers. With 118 assists and 70 goals in 280 appearances, he ranks second all-time in Premier League assists. Manager Pep Guardiola called his departure “a sad day.” The creative genius leaves behind a legacy that transformed English football’s tactical landscape.
Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City’s midfield maestro, is set to leave the Premier League champions after a glittering nine-year career that transformed English football. The Belgian star confirmed he won’t extend his contract beyond June 2025, ending a dynasty that brought 19 major trophies to the Etihad Stadium.
De Bruyne’s Premier League legacy stands as one of the most impressive in history. With 280 appearances, he’s recorded 70 goals and 118 assists – second only to Ryan Giggs on the all-time assist list. His assist rate of 0.42 per 90 minutes nearly doubles Giggs’ 0.26, showing his unmatched creative influence.
De Bruyne’s assist rate of 0.42 per match nearly doubles legendary Giggs’ numbers, cementing his status as the Premier League’s ultimate creator.
City manager Pep Guardiola called De Bruyne’s departure “a sad day” for the club. The Spanish coach praised De Bruyne’s vision in the final third as Hall of Fame-worthy. Guardiola admitted the creative hole left by the Belgian would be nearly impossible to fill.
The 33-year-old’s impact went far beyond numbers. He created 195 big chances – the most by any player in Premier League history – and delivered 210 through balls that carved open defenses. His three Playmaker of the Year awards and two PFA Player of the Year honors reflect his dominance.
His journey wasn’t always smooth. After Chelsea rejected him early in his career, De Bruyne rebuilt his reputation at Wolfsburg before City paid a then-club record £71 million for his services in 2015. That fee now looks like a bargain considering his contributions. His early experience at Chelsea was limited to just two league starts before his move to Germany in 2014.
De Bruyne released an emotional farewell statement highlighting his gratitude to the club. “We won EVERYTHING,” he wrote, referring to City’s complete trophy collection during his tenure, including their first Champions League title.
The midfielder’s final season saw reduced playing time with just 19 league starts due to injuries and rotation. This sparked speculation about decline, but his quality remained evident whenever he played. His 49.39 passes per match and 25% cross accuracy showed his continuing class. The Belgian international currently earns £400,000 weekly, making him one of the highest-paid players in Premier League history.
Guardiola shaped De Bruyne’s role as a central playmaker with freedom to roam, revolutionizing midfield creativity through positional flexibility and spatial awareness. Their partnership became one of football’s most productive, redefining how Premier League teams approach attacking play.
It remains unclear if De Bruyne will participate in the Club World Cup before his departure, with Guardiola undecided on his inclusion.
Regardless, his legacy as the creative force behind Manchester City’s era of dominance is secure. He leaves English football having transformed the game through his vision, technique, and unmatched ability to create scoring opportunities.
Conclusion
De Bruyne’s departure marks the end of an era for Manchester City. For nine years, the Belgian star dazzled fans with his incredible passing and vision. He’s won multiple titles and broken numerous records during his time in the Premier League. As he moves on to a new chapter in his career, soccer fans worldwide will remember his genius on the field for years to come.
