As Kevin De Bruyne nears the end of his Manchester City contract this summer, uncertainty looms over his future. The Belgian midfielder, once the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s system, has struggled with persistent injuries, raising concerns about his long-term effectiveness at the highest level.
Injuries and Decline in Form
At 32 years old, De Bruyne has battled multiple fitness setbacks in recent seasons, limiting his game time and impacting his consistency. While his vision and technical ability remain world-class, his reduced availability has prompted discussions within Manchester City’s hierarchy about whether to extend his stay or allow him to explore new opportunities.
Pep Guardiola’s Perspective
City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledged De Bruyne’s importance but emphasized that the midfielder must evaluate his future carefully. “Kevin has been an incredible servant to this club, but at this stage of his career, he must consider what is best for him and his family,” Guardiola stated in a recent interview.
Interest from the United States and Saudi Arabia
With uncertainty surrounding a contract renewal, MLS clubs in the United States and teams from Saudi Arabia have reportedly expressed interest in signing the midfield maestro. A move to the Saudi Pro League could offer a lucrative final chapter to his career, while a switch to Major League Soccer (MLS) might provide a different lifestyle and a less physically demanding environment.
What’s Next for De Bruyne?
- Stay at Manchester City: If he regains full fitness and City offer a short-term extension, he could remain as a key squad player.
- Move to MLS: A switch to the U.S. would allow him to maintain a high level of competition while embracing a new challenge.
- Join Saudi Pro League: Financially rewarding, but it would mean stepping away from Europe’s top leagues.