Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is reportedly set for crucial talks with the club regarding his future, amid persistent rumours linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia. The Belgian international, who has been a key player for City since joining in 2015, is entering the final year of his contract. Speculation has been rife about his next move, with Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad reportedly interested in securing his services. However, City manager Pep Guardiola has made it clear that De Bruyne remains an integral part of his plans.
Kevin De Bruyne has enjoyed a remarkable career at Manchester City, becoming one of the most influential midfielders in the Premier League. Since joining from Wolfsburg in 2015, De Bruyne has made 382 appearances for City, scoring 102 goals and providing 170 assists. His vision, passing ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals have made him a fan favourite and a vital component of Guardiola’s squad.
Despite being sidelined for over four months due to injury last season, De Bruyne still managed to contribute significantly, finishing the 2023-24 campaign with six goals and 18 assists in 26 competitive appearances. His performances have helped City secure numerous trophies, including six Premier League titles and the 2022-23 Champions League crown.
As De Bruyne enters the final year of his contract, the club faces a critical decision. The Belgian’s future at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain, with talks scheduled to determine whether he will extend his stay or seek a new challenge elsewhere.
Saudi Arabia’s Ambitious Pursuit
The Saudi Pro League has been making headlines with its ambitious recruitment drive, aiming to attract top international talent to boost the league’s profile. Kevin De Bruyne has emerged as a prime target for Al-Ittihad, one of the leading clubs in Saudi Arabia. Reports suggest that the club has already made contact with De Bruyne’s representatives and is prepared to offer a lucrative contract to lure him to the Middle East.
Saudi Arabian football bosses view De Bruyne’s potential arrival as transformational, believing that his presence could significantly elevate the league’s quality and global appeal. The move would also align with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to invest in sports and entertainment as part of its Vision 2030 initiative.
However, De Bruyne has remained tight-lipped about his future, stating that he plans to enjoy his summer break before returning to Manchester City for pre-season training. The upcoming talks with City will be crucial in determining his next steps and whether he will entertain the idea of a move to Saudi Arabia.
Guardiola’s Stance and Future Prospects
Pep Guardiola has been vocal about his desire to keep Kevin De Bruyne at Manchester City. The Spanish manager considers De Bruyne an indispensable part of his squad and has expressed confidence that the Belgian will remain at the club. Guardiola’s endorsement is a testament to De Bruyne’s importance and the impact he has had on City’s success over the years.
The showdown talks between De Bruyne and City are expected to take place when the midfielder returns from his break. These discussions will be pivotal in shaping the future of both the player and the club. If De Bruyne decides to stay, it would be a significant boost for City as they aim to defend their Premier League title and compete for more silverware.
On the other hand, if De Bruyne opts for a new challenge, it would mark the end of an era for Manchester City. The club would need to find a suitable replacement to fill the void left by one of their greatest ever players. Regardless of the outcome, De Bruyne’s legacy at City is secure, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
