Kevin De Bruyne can be thought to be top-of-the-line gamers in Premier League historical past – Getty Pictures/Tom Flathers
Kevin De Bruyne has introduced he’s leaving on the finish of the season.
The Belgian midfielder’s contract on the Etihad runs out in the summertime however De Bruyne says he won’t be extending his deal past this marketing campaign.
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In an announcement on social media, De Bruyne wrote: “Seeing this, you in all probability realise the place that is heading. So I’ll get straight to it and allow you to all know that these can be my ultimate months as a Manchester Metropolis participant. Nothing about that is straightforward to jot down, however as soccer gamers, everyone knows at the present time ultimately comes. That day is right here and also you deserve to listen to it from me first.”
Telegraph Sport reported in December in him, whereas the Metropolis Soccer Group is eager to maintain him inside its secure of golf equipment world wide, such is his standing.
Talking in his pre-match press convention forward of Sunday’s Manchester derby, which can be De Bruyne’s final, Metropolis boss Pep Guardiola paid tribute to the 33-year-old.
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He stated: “Unhappy day. A contented day for the truth that the pleasure I personally lived with him. He gave all of us along with his humility and his affect in our success within the final decade. That might have been unimaginable to think about with out him.
“When Vincent (Kmpnay) left or Sergio (Aguero) left or David Silva, it’s a tragic day. We nonetheless have 10 video games – hopefully 11 – that we are able to get pleasure from with our followers and he’ll get the love and recognition that he deserves.
“I believe I learn at present that he’s been concerned in 280 targets and assists within the Premier League. You at all times should watch out for respect for gamers within the final 20, 30 years however, come on, there’s little doubt he’s one of many best for certain. His consistency, aside from the final 12 months when he had damage issues, in vital video games and being there on a regular basis.”
De Bruyne signed for Metropolis in 2015 from German aspect Wolfsburg for £54.5 million and is thought to be one of many membership’s best gamers after successful six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, 5 League Cups and the Champions League.
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Guardiola added: “His assists, his targets. His imaginative and prescient within the ultimate third is so troublesome to interchange. Everybody could make actions however over what number of years and video games is what makes him distinctive. His efficiency throughout this decade has been excellent. We’ve gained a variety of trophies and he’s been concerned in each single one.
“He’s a part of the membership. The membership has stated to him the door is open for the remainder of his life, no matter he desires to do. He’s a part of the household of the membership.”
In an announcement, Metropolis confirmed they intend to “ship a becoming tribute and farewell to one of many best gamers to ever play within the Premier League”. In complete, he has performed 413 matches for the membership in all competitions, scoring 106 targets and offering 174 assists.
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