Pep Guardiola has hailed Kevin De Bruyne as one of the greatest players in Premier League history after the Belgian midfielder confirmed he will leave Manchester City at the end of the season.
De Bruyne, 33, has been a central figure in City’s era of dominance since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million. Over nine glittering seasons, he has amassed 14 major trophies, including six Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League in 2023.
A legacy of goals, assists and glory
With 106 goals and 174 assists in 413 appearances, De Bruyne has cemented his status as one of the most influential midfielders in English football.
“He is one of the greatest midfielders ever to play in this country and for this club – there is no doubt,” Guardiola said on Friday.
“We’ve won a lot of trophies and he’s been involved in every single one.”
Injuries dampen final seasons
Though De Bruyne’s recent seasons have been blighted by injuries—missing five months last term with a hamstring tear and starting only 21 of City’s 47 games this season—Guardiola praised the Belgian’s consistency and resilience during his prime.
“For his consistency, except for the last year and a half due to injuries. The consistency in important games and not important games, every three days being there all the time,” Guardiola noted.
“His assists, goals, and vision in the final third—so difficult to replace. Everyone can make assists, but how many years and games at that level? That’s what makes him unique.”
Etihad immortality awaits the midfield maestro
As statues of Vincent Kompany, David Silva, and Sergio Aguero already stand outside the Etihad, Guardiola is confident De Bruyne will receive the same honour.
“I would bet a lot of money that it is going to happen, that’s for sure,” he said. “He deserves to be on this level.”
Uncertainty over Club World Cup participation
While De Bruyne’s contract is due to expire at the end of June, it remains unclear if he will feature for City in the FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled from June 14 to July 13.
“It’s a good question—I don’t know,” Guardiola said. “He has to decide. It’s a new competition. I hope he can continue to play football in another place, but it depends on the risk and contracts for the future.
The club has to talk to him, and he has to say what he wants to do.”
End of an era, but legacy will live on
De Bruyne’s departure will mark the end of a golden chapter in Manchester City’s history. But his legacy—built on brilliance, leadership, and silverware—will endure as one of the defining stories of the Premier League era.
