Kevin De Bruyne Admits Man City Exit “Wasn’t Nice” as Club Withholds New Contract
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has opened up on the heartache of receiving no new contract offer from the club, saying 'it wasn't nice'.

Kevin De Bruyne Admits Man City Exit “Wasn’t Nice” as Club Withholds New Contract

Kevin De Bruyne contract frustration laid bare as Man City legend insists he can still perform at the top level

It’s never easy watching a footballing era edge towards its conclusion—especially when it involves a player who’s been the creative heartbeat of a dynasty. For Kevin De Bruyne, the man who so often dictated Manchester City’s rhythm with inch-perfect passes and late surges through midfield, the reality of his impending exit is beginning to hit home. And it hurts.

Following City’s routine 2-0 win away to Everton, the Belgian playmaker opened up for the first time about the club’s decision not to offer him a new deal. In an honest and rather emotional moment, De Bruyne admitted: “It wasn’t nice.”

The 33-year-old, who has been synonymous with City’s modern success under Pep Guardiola, revealed that despite his desire to continue at the Etihad, he never received a single offer from the club throughout the season. Now, he’s set to walk away once his current contract expires—and there’s no hiding the disappointment.

“I was a bit surprised”: De Bruyne on Man City’s silence

Kevin De Bruyne contract frustration laid bare as Man City

Kevin De Bruyne contract frustration laid bare as Man City

“I didn’t have any offer from them through the whole year,” De Bruyne explained in the post-match press conference. “The club made a decision. Obviously, I was a bit surprised but I have to accept it. Honestly, I still think I can perform at this level, like I’m showing.”

It wasn’t just the decision itself that stung—it was the way it unfolded. With his family away on holiday and no real discussions taking place behind the scenes, the announcement felt oddly detached from everything De Bruyne has given to the club since arriving in 2015.

“It was half a week till I reported it out and it wasn’t nice,” he said. “My family weren’t home. They were on holiday so it was a bit weird, but it is what it is.”

What stands out is how grounded his reaction is. There’s no bitterness, just a quiet sense of frustration. This is a player who knows his worth, who has poured his best years into helping Manchester City become the powerhouse they are. And while he’s not 25 anymore, he’s confident he’s still got something special to offer.

“I told Txiki [Begiristain] and Ferran [Soriano] that I feel like I still have a lot to give. I know I’m not 25 anymore, but I still feel like I can do my job.”

A legendary chapter nearing its close

A market of options—what next for Kevin De Bruyne?

A market of options—what next for Kevin De Bruyne?

De Bruyne’s CV speaks for itself. A four-time Premier League champion, multiple domestic cups in his cabinet, and a Champions League winner—his legacy in sky blue is firmly cemented. But like many greats before him, age and injury have begun to play their part.

Over the past two seasons, De Bruyne has spent more time on the treatment table than he’d like. Hamstring troubles, ankle issues, and general wear and tear have limited his rhythm. And yet, when he is fit, he still looks like one of the best midfielders in the game. His display against Crystal Palace earlier this month was proof enough: two assists, a masterclass in tempo and vision, and a reminder of what City may soon miss.

The idea that he can no longer “perform at this level” is, in his eyes, simply not true. And frankly, he’s got a point.

A market of options—what next for Kevin De Bruyne?

With the announcement of his departure out in the open, the big question now is: where next?

De Bruyne has been clear that he’s not rushing any decisions. Speaking to reporters, he explained: “I’m open for anything because I have to look at the whole picture. I’m looking at sporting reasons, family, and everything together.”

Given his status, there’s no doubt a line of suitors will form quickly. A return to Belgium isn’t out of the question—Genk, where he started his career, would welcome him with open arms. There’s also been quiet talk of a move to the MLS, where ageing European stars have found both sporting satisfaction and lifestyle perks. The Saudi Pro League, flush with cash and eager to build credibility, could certainly offer him a contract on par with his City salary—though that move might not tick the sporting boxes he values so highly.

Still, his preference seems to be staying at the highest possible level, at least for now. And if he keeps producing moments of magic between now and May, Champions League clubs across Europe will surely come calling.

The final push in sky blue

While it’s sad to see the writing on the wall, De Bruyne isn’t done with City just yet. Guardiola will need every ounce of his experience and creativity as the club battles on multiple fronts—securing a top-four finish, pushing deep into the Champions League, and chasing yet another piece of silverware to cap off a glittering reign.

Whether he starts or comes off the bench, whether it’s a Hollywood assist or a crucial bit of leadership, expect De Bruyne to leave it all on the pitch. If these are his final weeks in a City shirt, he’ll want to go out the way he came in—by making a difference.

And when the curtain does fall, it won’t just be the end of a contract. It’ll be the close of one of the finest Premier League careers of the modern era. One that, even in its final act, still has a few chapters left to write.

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