As the 2024/25 season draws toward its close, the footballing world finds itself reflecting on the end of an era at Manchester City. One of the Premier League’s most decorated and beloved figures, Kevin De Bruyne, has officially announced that he will be leaving the club at the end of the season. The news, though widely anticipated, still sent shockwaves through Manchester City’s fan base, the Premier League community, and the wider world of football. Among those most affected by the announcement is De Bruyne’s long-time teammate and close friend, Phil Foden, who paid an emotional tribute to the departing Belgian midfielder
The rumors surrounding Kevin De Bruyne’s future had been swirling for months. With his contract nearing its conclusion and no significant progress on talks for an extension, speculation about his departure had been growing. The 33-year-old playmaker, who joined Manchester City in 2015 from VfL Wolfsburg, has spent nearly a decade at the Etihad Stadium. In that time, he has grown into a club legend and one of the defining midfielders of his generation.
Throughout the current campaign, De Bruyne’s involvement on the pitch has been notably limited. Persistent injuries, along with Pep Guardiola’s tactical shifts and the team’s inconsistent form, have resulted in the Belgian making just 12 appearances in the Premier League this season. His reduced role only fueled speculation that the end of his City chapter was drawing near.
Then, on April 4, 2025, the inevitable became official. Kevin De Bruyne confirmed that he would be leaving Manchester City when his contract expires in the summer. While he has yet to publicly announce his next destination, reports suggest interest from both Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States and clubs in Saudi Arabia, eager to add yet another marquee name to their leagues
In the immediate aftermath of De Bruyne’s announcement, tributes poured in from fans, pundits, and players around the world. However, none was more poignant than that of Phil Foden. The 24-year-old English midfielder, himself a product of Manchester City’s academy, took to social media to express his gratitude, admiration, and sadness at seeing a teammate and mentor depart.
Foden shared multiple images and videos of memorable moments alongside De Bruyne—goals, assists, hugs, and celebrations. But more than the visuals, it was Foden’s words that resonated with fans: “Words can’t describe what you’ve meant to me, to this club, and to every single teammate lucky enough to play alongside you. You’ve been a leader, a genius on the pitch, and a role model off it. Thank you for everything, Kev. You’ve helped shape who I am as a player and as a person. This club won’t be the same without you.”
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Foden’s message reflects the deep bond that developed between the two over their years together. De Bruyne has not only been a creative force for Manchester City but has also played a vital role in mentoring younger players like Foden, helping them navigate the demands of top-level football with humility and discipline
Kevin De Bruyne’s time at Manchester City will be remembered as one of the most remarkable careers in Premier League history. Signed for a then-club-record fee of around £55 million in 2015, he quickly silenced any critics who doubted his ability to shine in England—especially following a modest stint at Chelsea earlier in his career. Over nearly ten years at City, De Bruyne has racked up an astonishing list of achievements
What set De Bruyne apart wasn’t just his statistics but the way he played the game. His vision, passing range, spatial awareness, and football IQ made him the heartbeat of Guardiola’s City side. Whether splitting defenses with inch-perfect through balls or launching thunderous strikes from outside the box, De Bruyne combined elegance and aggression in a way few midfielders have ever done.
He was often the man for the big occasion, delivering match-winning performances in title-deciding games and key Champions League nights. Perhaps more impressively, he consistently elevated those around him—turning promising players into stars and experienced stars into world-beaters
The departure of a player like Kevin De Bruyne forces any club into a period of tactical and psychological transition. For Pep Guardiola, arguably one of the greatest managers in football history, De Bruyne has been a cornerstone of his Manchester City revolution.
Guardiola built much of his midfield play around De Bruyne’s unique ability to control tempo, exploit half-spaces, and create chances from virtually nothing. With the Belgian on the pitch, Guardiola always had a game-changer—someone who could produce a moment of magic even when the team was struggling.
This season, however, with De Bruyne playing a reduced role, Guardiola has already begun to explore alternatives. He has experimented with younger options like Phil Foden, Mateo Kovacic, and Matheus Nunes in central midfield roles. Foden, in particular, has stepped up, producing some of the best performances of his career in a more central role.
Nevertheless, replacing De Bruyne isn’t as simple as plugging in a like-for-like replacement. It will likely take a combination of tactical adaptation, squad investment, and time to fill the void left by such a singular talent
With De Bruyne’s exit confirmed, much of the spotlight now shifts to Phil Foden. Once heralded as the “Stockport Iniesta,” Foden has matured significantly over the past few seasons. Initially used as a winger or attacking midfielder, he has grown into a more complete player under Guardiola’s guidance.
Now 24, Foden is expected to assume even greater responsibility in the post-De Bruyne era. His recent performances suggest he is ready for that mantle. In matches where De Bruyne was absent, Foden has demonstrated the ability to dictate play, create chances, and score crucial goals.
His emotional tribute to De Bruyne further highlights the depth of their relationship. Foden didn’t just lose a teammate—he lost a mentor, a friend, and a player who shaped his development. But in many ways, that influence now becomes a legacy that Foden carries forward.
City fans will look to Foden not just to replicate De Bruyne’s numbers but to uphold the standards and style that the Belgian brought to the midfield. It’s a heavy burden, but one Foden seems mentally prepared to carry.
As for Kevin De Bruyne, the next chapter of his career remains uncertain. Though he has not yet announced his future plans, several clubs are reportedly in pursuit. The most serious interest appears to come from Major League Soccer, with clubs like LAFC and Inter Miami rumored to be preparing lucrative offers.
A move to MLS would follow a growing trend of European stars taking their talents to the United States in the latter stages of their careers. Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami last year proved the league’s increasing global appeal. De Bruyne, with his brand, professionalism, and charisma, would be a massive asset both on and off the pitch.
There are also whispers of interest from the Saudi Pro League, which has already managed to lure elite players with significant contracts and high-profile project promises. Should De Bruyne prioritize financial reward and a new cultural experience, that could be a viable option.
Regardless of his destination, there is little doubt that De Bruyne still has more to offer. Though injuries have taken a toll, his footballing brain remains as sharp as ever. In the right environment, he could continue to thrive and inspire.
Kevin De Bruyne’s exit marks the end of a golden chapter for Manchester City. His time at the club coincided with an era of unprecedented success, and his contribution to that success is immeasurable. While change is inevitable in football, the emotional weight of such departures cannot be ignored.
For fans, De Bruyne was more than just a player. He was a symbol of the club’s rise to global prominence. His name will forever be etched in City’s history, and his legacy will be carried on through the players he inspired—none more so than Phil Foden.
The 2025 summer transfer window now takes on added significance. Guardiola and the City board must find a way to rebuild without their most influential midfielder. That task will be challenging, but if history has shown anything, it’s that Manchester City rarely stand still for long.
As Foden wrote in his tribute, “The club won’t be the same without you.” And he’s right. But football moves forward, and so does Manchester City. With Foden ready to step into the spotlight and a new generation rising, the next era is already beginning.
