Kevin De Bruyne Opens Up About Uncertain Future at Manchester City Amid Team’s Struggles
It’s not every day that a player as iconic as Kevin De Bruyne hints at an uncertain future with his club, but that’s exactly what the Manchester City star did during a recent press conference. The 33-year-old Belgian midfielder, who has been a cornerstone of City’s success for nearly a decade, admitted he’s unsure if this season will be his last at the Etihad. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, De Bruyne revealed that injury setbacks have put any discussions about an extension on hold.
“I honestly don’t know,” De Bruyne said when asked about his future. “At the start of the season, I knew talks would happen, but then the thing [injury] happened against Brentford. It was meant to be a couple of days, and then it was eight/nine weeks. I put it all to the side.”
De Bruyne hasn’t started a game for Manchester City since September 18 due to an abdominal injury that has kept him sidelined for over two months. However, there’s a glimmer of hope for City fans as he’s expected to return to the starting XI for their Champions League clash against Feyenoord on Tuesday.
Contract Talks on Hold
De Bruyne, who has been linked with potential moves to the Saudi Pro League and MLS side San Diego FC, explained that his injury derailed any momentum for contract negotiations. “I had a conversation in the summer, but then I had the injury, so I wasn’t in the right frame of mind to talk about that,” he said. “I need to be back on the pitch and be myself again. There’s no rush, I don’t feel uncomfortable, I’m not worried.”
While De Bruyne remains focused on regaining his form, the uncertainty surrounding his future has sparked speculation. Could this be the end of an era for one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders?
Guardiola’s Influence on De Bruyne’s Decision
One factor that could sway De Bruyne’s decision is the presence of Pep Guardiola. The City boss, who was also set to be out of contract this summer, recently signed a two-year extension to stay at the club until 2027. De Bruyne hinted that Guardiola’s commitment to the team might play a role in his own future.
“It could help,” De Bruyne said. “I know what the future holds. I don’t have to speak to Pep about what is happening in the future. If there would be a new coach, you have to speak. Maybe Pep changes his mind and says, ‘Thank you, Kevin, it is time to leave,’ but I know how he works with the team and the players, so that is nothing new to me.”
De Bruyne added, “Questions will come, but I can only give you the answers I give at this time. Talks will come. If no talks come, it will be my last year. I just want to play good football.”
City’s Struggles Add to the Drama
De Bruyne’s comments come at a time when Manchester City is enduring a rare rough patch. The reigning Premier League champions are on a five-match losing streak across all competitions, including league defeats to Bournemouth, Brighton, and Tottenham Hotspur. This slump has allowed Liverpool to take control of the title race.
Despite the mounting pressure, Guardiola remains optimistic about his team’s prospects. “I think we deserve some patience when we lose games,” he said. “You are defending a legacy, and that is so difficult to handle. I have the feeling that this season we will do very good things. I don’t give up, and I have the feeling that we will be there.”
What’s Next for De Bruyne and City?
As City prepares to face Feyenoord in the Champions League, all eyes will be on De Bruyne’s return to the pitch. Will he rediscover the form that has made him one of the best midfielders in the world? And more importantly, will his performances convince City to offer him a new deal—or will he decide to seek a new challenge elsewhere?
Here’s what we know so far:
- De Bruyne’s contract expires at the end of the season.
- He has been linked with moves to the Saudi Pro League and MLS.
- Pep Guardiola’s recent contract extension could influence De Bruyne’s decision.
- City is currently on a five-match losing streak, adding pressure to the team.
For now, De Bruyne is keeping his focus on the present. “I just want to play good football,” he said. Whether that football will continue to be played in Manchester or elsewhere remains to be seen.
Originally Written by: Rob Dawson
