Premier League star stunned by decision from title-winning club | OneFootball

Kevin De Bruyne is not going to be staying at Manchester City. That's not something anyone is not aware of. The player himself had already made up his mind that the end of the road had finally arrived. What had shocked him was something else: the entire season long, the club never had the interest to prolong his contract. No offer. No talks. Nothing. They simply informed him that the professional relationship would come to an end at the expiry of his contract. It was then the shock hit.

"I was rather in shock. I didn't receive any offer during the whole year. They simply made their choice. Of course, I was rather surprised, but I must accept," explained the player.

The news wasn't from Guardiola. It was directors Txiki Begiristain and Ferrán Soriano who made the announcement. Direct, unequivocal, no going back. After 10 years, 416 games, 107 goals, 168 assists, and 16 accolades — a Champions League, and six Premier League titles.

Performance on the pitch still fuels his drive

At 32, with a recent spate of injuries, De Bruyne might have let his form drop. Might have. But it didn't. Since returning to the pitch this season, he's demonstrated he can play at this level. That sharp touch, that acute vision, and those through balls which halve defences are all still available. And he knows that. "Honestly, I still think I can play at this level, as I'm demonstrating," he said, unapologetically. This doesn’t sound like a farewell full of nostalgia. The truth is, he’s still got gas in the tank, and whoever’s interested better act. The Premier League remains a real option. De Bruyne hasn’t closed the door. Quite the opposite. “I still have a lot to give. I’m open to everything.” Direct and to the point.

Manchester City is already living its next chapter

The club's choice seems to be part of a rebuild. It might be about age, payroll, roster space for new names. Maybe all of that. The thing is, while he's playing great on the pitch, an extension wasn't in the plans. And whereas that's common in soccer, it stings more when one of the sport's largest symbols at the club since its resurgence is involved.

Guardiola wasn't in the room, but his fingerprints are evident. City thinks ahead, looks ahead, and maybe — maybe only — De Bruyne didn't fit the next version of the template. That's understandable. But even a predetermined outcome deserves a bit more discussion. Or at least, a nod of recognition.

And the future? Wide open still

Outside the Premier League, MLS is a viable destination now. Several American teams are watching closely. And it makes sense: De Bruyne is a high-profile player, draws publicity, and still performs at an elite level. He'd be an off- and on-pitch high-impact acquisition. But nothing is signed yet.

He's made it clear that he'll do it slowly. He knows he's in a stage in his career when selecting a club is not merely about chasing money or status. It's about the project, playing conditions, environment, even lifestyle. Something's for sure: plenty of doors are going to open.