Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has left Kevin De Bruyne with a candid message as the Belgian midfielder contemplates his next move with the Premier League champions.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, City will give De Bruyne the freedom to decide his future after a decade of dominance at the Etihad.
De Bruyne’s Uncertain Future
The 32-year-old playmaker has recently faced mounting scrutiny, especially after being benched during City’s 5-1 defeat to Arsenal and playing no part in their Champions League clash against Real Madrid. His performance in the loss to Liverpool also sparked concerns, with critics questioning whether his body can still handle the Premier League’s intensity.
Guardiola, however, insists that the final decision lies solely with De Bruyne.
“I think in that situation, he has to decide. That is the most important thing.”
“He has to be completely honest with himself, to decide what he feels and what he can do in the next period of his life.”
“He is 34 in the summer, and he has to decide, like what happened with David Silva, for example.”
A Hint Toward Departure?
Guardiola’s comparison to David Silva—who left City in 2020 after a legendary spell—suggests that this could be the beginning of De Bruyne’s exit. Whether he renews his contract, seeks a new challenge abroad, or considers retirement, the decision now rests with the Belgian maestro.
As speculation swirls, one thing is clear: Manchester City will respect whatever path De Bruyne chooses after years of service at the top level.
