Kevin De Bruyne has confirmed he will leave Manchester City when his contract expires at the end of the current campaign, bringing an end to a decade-long stint that saw him establish himself as one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders.

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The 33-year-old Belgian playmaker, who arrived from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million, has been instrumental in City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola. During his time at the Etihad, he has won 16 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the club’s first-ever Champions League crown in 2023.

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Despite his impact, injuries have limited De Bruyne’s involvement this season, with the midfielder making just 19 starts across all competitions. Announcing his departure on social media, he reflected on his journey with the club.

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“Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter,” he wrote.

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“Football led me to all of you - and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This city. This club.

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“These people gave me everything. I had no choice but to give everything back. And guess what - we won everything.

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“Whether we like it or not, it's time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michele, and I are beyond grateful for what this place has meant for our family. Manchester will forever be on our kids' passports - and more importantly, in each of our hearts.

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“This will always be our home. We cannot thank the city, club, staff, team-mates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride.”

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Manchester City has acknowledged De Bruyne’s immense contribution to the club, confirming that plans are in place to give him a "fitting tribute" before the season concludes.

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“Manchester City will bid an emotional farewell to Kevin de Bruyne this summer when his contract expires, bringing an end to a glittering 10-year period at the club,” City announced.

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“The Belgian, a global icon of the game, has played 413 matches for City.

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“During that period, he has scored 106 times, making him the first City midfielder since Colin Bell to reach a century of goals.

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“The club and all of our fans will now take the time to deliver a fitting tribute and farewell to one of the greatest players to ever play in the Premier League.”

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De Bruyne’s time in Manchester coincided with an era of unprecedented success for the club. Under Guardiola, he evolved into a world-class playmaker, becoming the creative engine behind City’s attacking dominance.

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His individual achievements are equally remarkable. Since joining City, De Bruyne has:

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Provided 117 assists in the Premier League, more than any other player in that period.

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Created 827 chances and 193 big chances, the most in the league.

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Won two Premier League Player of the Season awards (2019-20, 2021-22).

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Matched Thierry Henry’s record for most assists in a single season (20 in 2019-20).

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Claimed the Premier League Playmaker Award three times (2017-18, 2019-20, 2022-23).

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The Belgian’s future remains uncertain, but last summer, he admitted he was "open to everything" after being linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. He also put contract talks on hold while recovering from a thigh injury earlier this season.

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