Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has praised Kevin De Bruyne as one of the finest midfielders in Premier League history, following the Belgian’s announcement on Friday that he will leave the club at the end of the current season after ten years at the Etihad Stadium.
Since arriving from German side VfL Wolfsburg in 2015, the 33-year-old has collected 16 major trophies with City, including six Premier League titles and a Champions League crown in 2023.
Over the course of 413 appearances, De Bruyne has netted 106 goals and contributed 174 assists, with 118 of those in the Premier League — the second-highest total in the competition’s history, behind only Ryan Giggs with 162.
“He’s one of the best midfielders ever to play in this country, and certainly for Manchester City, without a doubt,” Guardiola said during a Friday press conference ahead of Sunday’s derby against Manchester United.
“Not the greatest — you always have to respect the legends who played at Maine Road and others who’ve been part of this club over the past two or three decades. But, still, it’s clear — he’s among the greatest, no question. Because of his consistency — in big games, smaller games, always delivering every three days — it’s undeniable.”
Guardiola shared that he had been informed of De Bruyne’s decision a few days prior, but the news still struck an emotional chord when it became official.
“It’s a sad moment — but also a joyful one. I’ve had the privilege to work with him. He brought humility to the team, and his impact on our success over the last ten years is something we couldn’t have imagined without him.”
When asked if De Bruyne merited a statue alongside other City icons like Vincent Kompany and Sergio Aguero, Guardiola responded: “Absolutely, yes. I’d bet a lot of money that it’ll happen.”
De Bruyne has featured in 20 league games this season, despite injury issues earlier in the campaign.
City remain in contention for more silverware this season, with an FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest scheduled for April 26, offering De Bruyne a potential final domestic trophy.
City will also take part in the 32-team FIFA Club World Cup in the United States, from June 14 to July 13.
When asked about De Bruyne’s participation in the Club World Cup, Guardiola said: “I don’t know. That’ll be up to him. It’s a new format, so the contracts are different… the club needs to speak with him, or he’ll have to express what he wants to do.”
“The first few games fall under his current contract, which runs until June 30. But after that, if we progress, I’m not sure… I just hope he continues to play somewhere — it all depends on the contractual risks and what comes next.”
