'It would be impossible to imagine Man City's success without De Bruyne': Pep Guardiola

IANS April 4, 2025 137 views

Kevin De Bruyne is set to leave Manchester City after a transformative decade that reshaped the club's history. His departure marks the end of an era, with manager Pep Guardiola expressing deep emotional respect for the Belgian midfielder's contributions. De Bruyne's statistical legacy is remarkable, having scored 106 goals in 413 matches and winning an incredible 19 major honours. His personal farewell message highlights not just his sporting achievements, but the profound personal connection he and his family developed with Manchester.

"It would be impossible to imagine our success without him" - Pep Guardiola
Manchester, April 4: Head coach Pep Guardiola claimed it is a sad day, after midfielder Kevin De Bruyne announced he will be leaving Manchester City at the end of the season.

Key Points

1

De Bruyne leaves after 413 matches and 106 goals for Manchester City

2

Won 19 major honours including six Premier League titles

3

Guardiola compares his departure to legends like Kompany and Silva

After joining from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in 2015, De Bruyne was one of the pillars on which City's decade-long dominance was built. Guardiola admitted his impact and said it would be impossible to imagine the club’s success without him.

“It's a sad day. What he gives all of us which is humanity and of course, I don't have to tell you his influence on our success in the last decade - it would be impossible to imagine without him," said Guardiola in the press conference.

"It's a sad day because a part of us is leaving. When Vincent Kompany left or Sergio Aguero left or David Silva - these players that have made such a big contribution - it's a sad day.

"We still have 10 games and hopefully 11, six games at home, that we can enjoy with our fans and he will get I'm pretty sure, the love and

recognition that he deserves,” he added.

The Belgian has played 413 matches for City. During that period, he has scored 106 times, making him the first City midfielder since Colin Bell to reach a century of goals.

The 33-year-old has won a remarkable 19 major honours with City, including six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, one UEFA Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup and three Community Shields.

Kevin announced the news on his personal Instagram account on Friday.

"Football led me to all of you and to this city. This city. This club. These people... gave me everything. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. I had no choice but to give everything back! And guess what we won everything.

"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 to our family. 'Manchester' will forever be on our kids' passports- and more importantly, in each of our hearts," the post read.

Reader Comments

J
James T.
Absolute legend! KDB has been the heartbeat of City for years. That assist record alone is insane. Wherever he goes next will be lucky to have him. 💙
S
Sarah L.
I'm not even a City fan but you have to respect what De Bruyne has achieved. One of the best midfielders of his generation. That Champions League final performance last season was masterclass.
M
Mike R.
While I agree he's been incredible, I do wonder if City's system made him look better than he is. He's had world-class players around him at all times. Still a great player though!
A
Anita K.
That Instagram post got me emotional ngl 😢 The way he talked about Manchester being in his family's hearts... What a class act on and off the pitch.
D
Derek P.
19 major honors in 9 years is just ridiculous. The man's trophy cabinet needs its own postcode! Wonder if he'll go to MLS or Saudi next?
T
Tara S.
Pep's right - it's the end of an era. First Kompany, then Aguero and Silva, now KDB. Who's going to step up as the new leader? Foden maybe?

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Kevin De Bruyne Manchester City Pep Guardiola Premier League Football Transfer
You May Like!