Pep Guardiola acknowledged it will be very difficult to replace a player of De Bruyne’s calibre.
Image credit: Premier League
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has revealed that he and other top officials at the club made the decision to let Kevin De Bruyne go, bringing an end to the midfielder’s glittering 10-year spell at the Etihad.
The 33-year-old, who has won numerous trophies with City, was reportedly open to staying on even in a reduced role.
🚨 Pep Guardiola confirms Man City did NOT offer Kevin De Bruyne a new deal: “The decision has been made for the club”. pic.twitter.com/MJ2LADT2xK
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 5, 2025
However, Guardiola confirmed that the club’s leadership—including himself and outgoing director of football Txiki Begiristain—opted not to renew his contract.
“The decision has been made for the club, and the club is the club,” Guardiola stated.
“Me, Txiki, and the club, so this is what it is.”
Guardiola acknowledged how difficult it will be to replace a player of De Bruyne’s calibre but emphasized the need to move forward.
“The club has to move forward, move on, and replicating this kind of player is so difficult. But yeah, these are the qualities and things we have to find.”
De Bruyne’s departure will undoubtedly leave a void, both on and off the pitch.
Known for his vision, pinpoint passing, and leadership, he has been one of the most influential players not just at City, but in world football over the last decade.
As the club prepares for a new chapter, fans will fondly remember De Bruyne’s contributions—from his stunning goals and assists to his role as a midfield orchestrator in one of the most dominant teams in Premier League history.
