Kevin De Bruyne Bids Emotional Farewell to Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne received an emotional send-off at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday night, marking his final appearance for Manchester City with a mix of celebration and heartbreak. The 33-year-old midfielder played his 142nd and last league game for the club in a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth, a match that left manager Pep Guardiola in tears.
De Bruyne, a cornerstone of City’s success over the past decade, will depart this summer, and a statue in his honor will be erected outside the stadium to commemorate his legendary status. In his post-match speech, he reflected on his time at the club, saying, “It’s an honor to play with these guys. I’ve made so many friends for life.”
Despite the joyous atmosphere, the farewell was tinged with disappointment as De Bruyne missed a golden opportunity to score in the first half, hitting the bar from just a few yards out. He was substituted in the second half after Mateo Kovacic’s red card, which added to the somberness of his departure.
Guardiola praised De Bruyne’s impact on the club, stating, “Titles are nice, but to leave after 10 years with this much respect and gratitude is the best achievement.” He described De Bruyne as the “second best” passer he has worked with, after Lionel Messi.
The night was filled with tributes, including a montage of De Bruyne’s best moments and a guard of honor from teammates as he left the pitch with his family. The stadium was adorned with merchandise celebrating the star player, and fans chanted his name in appreciation.
As De Bruyne prepares for his next chapter, possibly with Chicago Fire in the MLS, the challenge of finding a suitable replacement looms over City. Former players and pundits alike have acknowledged his unique talent, with Micah Richards stating, “He is irreplaceable.”
De Bruyne’s legacy at Manchester City is undeniable, having secured an impressive 16 winners’ medals during his tenure.
