Manchester City’s The longest -serving star, Kevin de Bruyne, faces an uncertain futurewith its contract that will expire at the end of the current season. The The 33-year-old Belgian midfielder has been a key figure in the city’s dominance over the past decadeBut when he enters the last months of his business, speculation is intensified over his next move.
In spite of its status as one of Biggest midfielder in Premier League historyDe Bruyne’s latest Fighting with injuries and a decline in playing time Have raised questions if he will remain at Etihad beyond this summer. And now, Pep Guardiola has taken up the situation and highlights what lies in front of the Belgian player.
Since City came to City 2015, De Bruyne has helped turn the club into a European power center. However, The last 18 months have been challenging. The player has fought persistent injuriesincluding a hamstring problems that sided him for six weeks at the beginning of the season– a question that goes back to 2023 UEFA Champions League Final.
Even when it is appropriate is the 33-year-old no longer an automatic starter. Protective left him out of the crucial Champions League second bone collision against Real MadridA decision that signaled a change in his role. IN Current Premier League campaign he has only started 12 out of 26 gamesmanagement Two goals and six assists.
With his contract approaching the end, Discussions about his future have gained momentum. Some believe de Bruyne still has a lot to offer, while others claim that the city must transition to a younger squad.
What did Guardiola say about De Bruyne’s future?
In the middle of speculation, Guardiola has remained careful with their wordsRefusing to confirm if City will offer the veteran a new deal. “He was and is – and hopefully will be – an exceptional player,” he said, holding the door open but leaving the final decision to the player. “He will be 34 years at the end of the season and he has to decide. What happens belongs to him and the club. “
The Spaniard emphasized it His relationship with de Bruyne will not be affected by the decisionWhich makes it clear that he will not interfere with contract calls. “Nothing will change our relationship. We know each other pretty well, but I think in this situation, He must decide. “
While the experienced boss has been careful about his words, His broader philosophy of troop construction indicates that the city can prepare for life without de Bruyne. The boss recently warned of it He just wants players who can handle the intensity to play every three daysA statement that could apply to Belgium, given his injury.
“The club has to sign players, but at the same time we have to keep the players we have as much as possible,” Guardiola added and acknowledged The need for depth as the city prepares for a great schedule, including the Club World Club in summer 2025 this summer.
