Kevin De Bruyne to leave Manchester City at end of season

Kevin De Bruyne has announced he will leave Manchester City at season's end.

His contract at the Etihad Stadium expires this summer. He confirmed his departure as a free agent on Friday.

During his 10 years with the club, they won 16 trophies. This includes six Premier League titles and five League Cups. They also secured two FA Cups, two Community Shields, and one Champions League.

In a social media post, De Bruyne said, “You probably realize where this is heading.” He continued, “These will be my final months as a Manchester City player.”

He added that writing this message was not easy. “As football players, we know this day eventually comes,” he stated. “That day is here — and you deserve to hear it from me first.”

De Bruyne reflected on his journey: “Football led me to all of you — and to this city.” He expressed gratitude for how the club changed his life.

“This city. This club. These people… gave me everything,” he said. “I had no choice but to give everything back! And guess what — we won everything.”

He acknowledged the need to say goodbye: “Whether we like it or not, it’s time.” He thanked his family for their experiences in Manchester.

“‘Manchester’ will forever be on our kids’ passports,” he noted. “More importantly, it will be in our hearts.”

“This will always be our home,” De Bruyne concluded.