Kevin de Bruyne has issued an update on his future amid reports linking him with a move to Belgium after Manchester City’s FA Cup defeat to Crystal Palace.
The Belgian star’s esteemed stint at City is coming to a sour end, losing at Wembley on Saturday and running the risk of missing out on Champions League qualification with two games to go. City and De Bruyne announced in April that they will part ways at the end of the season after a trophy-laden spell at the Etihad.
The 33-year-old is undoubtedly one of the best players of his generation, but injuries have hampered him in recent seasons, prompting City’s decision to tell De Bruyne he will be released as a free agent.
De Bruyne was linked with a shock move to Anfield by Gianluca Di Marzio, who claimed the Reds were eager to acquire the six-time Premier League champion’s services. Anfield insiders have poured cold water on those claims, but it is clear that De Bruyne is open-minded about remaining in the Premier League beyond the end of this season.
“I want to play good football, whatever the decision will be. I know you’re trying to guess where I’m going to go, bit I will make my decision and you guys will know when I know,” he told reporters at Wembley after Palace’s 1-0 win.
“I don’t know. It depends who comes [in for me]. I have a family, I have young kids, and I have to make a decision that suits everybody, not just me. When I’m 20 years old and all by myself, I can make a decision that’s very easy, but now it’s a bit more complex.”
(Image: Sky Sports)
De Bruyne’s transfer update follows a cheeky comment from Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah, who hinted in an interview with Sky Sports this week that the Belgian would be a welcome addition to Arne Slot’s squad.
“I want to tell him congratulations for your career. He has done a phenomenal job for City, he was great for the league and I really wish him the best. And, yeah, we have a space for him!”
De Bruyne added that he has already spoken to interested clubs ahead of the end of the season, and replied “maybe” with a wry smile when asked if any of them were based in England.
De Bruyne shared an emotional statement on social media when his city departure was announced. He said: “Football led me to all of you – and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This city. This club.
“These people gave me everything. I had no choice but to give everything back. And guess what – we won everything.
“Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michele, and I are beyond grateful for what this place has meant for our family. Manchester will forever be on our kids’ passports – and more importantly, in each of our hearts.
“This will always be our home. We cannot thank the city, club, staff, team-mates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride.”
