Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has officially announced that he will leave the club at the end of the current season, bringing to a close a decade-long era of dominance and silverware at the Etihad Stadium.
In an emotional open letter shared on his social media on Friday, the 33-year-old Belgian confirmed that the time has come to move on, writing:
“Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here—and you deserve to hear it from me first.”
De Bruyne, who joined City from Wolfsburg in 2015, reflected on how the city, club, and its people changed his life:
“Football led me to all of you and to this city… This city. This club. These people… gave me EVERYTHING. I had no choice but to give EVERYTHING back!”
During his time with the club, De Bruyne won every major trophy, including multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, League Cups, and the UEFA Champions League, becoming a fan favorite and club legend in the process.
He paid tribute to his family—Suri, Rome, Mason, and Michèle—noting how Manchester became home for them:
“Manchester will forever be on our kids’ passports—and more importantly, in each of our hearts. This will always be our HOME.”
De Bruyne also thanked the City staff, teammates, and fans for what he described as the best chapter of his career:
“We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter.”
As City continue their chase for more trophies this season, De Bruyne urged supporters to savor the remaining moments of his journey:
“Let’s enjoy these last moments together!”
De Bruyne, who wears the No. 17 jersey, will go down as one of Manchester City’s greatest ever players.
