Kevin De Bruyne has announced his departure from Manchester City after a legendary decade at the Etihad Stadium, setting off worldwide speculation about his next destination.
The Belgian maestro will leave when his contract expires at the end of this season, concluding a remarkable chapter that has seen him win six Premier League titles and the Champions League among numerous other trophies.
City manager Pep Guardiola has spoken effusively about De Bruyne’s impact, suggesting he would bet “big money” on the midfielder being honored with a statue outside the stadium. His departure marks the end of an era for the club where he established himself as one of the premier playmakers in world football.
As a free agent, De Bruyne will be one of the most coveted players on the market despite his advancing years. Major League Soccer in the United States and the Saudi Pro League have emerged as frontrunners in the race for his signature. Both leagues have established patterns of attracting European stars in the twilight of their careers, with the MLS previously welcoming icons like David Beckham, Andrea Pirlo, and Frank Lampard.
The Saudi Pro League offers unprecedented financial incentives, as demonstrated by Cristiano Ronaldo’s reported €200 million annual contract with Al-Nassr. De Bruyne has allegedly held discussions with Saudi second-tier side Neom SC, considered among the wealthiest clubs globally.
Other potential suitors include San Diego FC from MLS, Argentine champions River Plate, and Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce. Romantic returns to former clubs like Genk or Wolfsburg remain possibilities as well, potentially following the path of his former teammate Vincent Kompany, who returned to his boyhood club Anderlecht after leaving Manchester.
De Bruyne’s decision will likely balance financial considerations with family priorities and his desire to continue competing at a high level. Whichever club secures his signature will gain not only his exceptional technical abilities but also his wealth of experience from competing at football’s highest echelons.
