In the pulsating world of Premier League football, few names shine as brightly as Kevin De Bruyne. The Manchester City maestro, whose vision and precision have defined an era at the Etihad, has sent shockwaves through the sport with a candid revelation about his future. At 33, with his contract nearing its end, De Bruyne has announced he will leave City after a decade of glittering success. But it’s his openness to joining a rival club—and a childhood affinity for Liverpool—that has fans and pundits buzzing with anticipation.
De Bruyne’s journey with City has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2015, he’s amassed six Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and a trophy cabinet bursting with domestic honors. His tally of 71 goals and 119 assists in 282 Premier League games speaks to a player who doesn’t just play the game but orchestrates it. Even this season, hampered by a hamstring injury, he’s delivered five goals and eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions. A recent masterclass in a 5-2 rout of Crystal Palace—where he scored a sublime free-kick and set up Mateo Kovacic’s goal—proved his magic remains undimmed. “I’ve been feeling good for the last six weeks, so I’m really happy,” he shared, a spark of optimism in his voice as he spoke of his fitness and focus.
Yet, the bombshell came when De Bruyne addressed his next chapter. With his contract expiring in June 2025, speculation has swirled about moves to Saudi Arabia or the MLS, with Inter Miami among those linked. But it’s his refusal to close the door on another Premier League club that has raised eyebrows. “There is always a challenge, you know. I don’t know what’s going to happen next season,” he said, his words measured but tantalizing. “If teams come and then convince me that they have a nice sport project… I still think I am able to perform on the highest level. Whatever project [is] available – I am willing to listen.” For a player who’s been the heartbeat of City’s dominance, the idea of him donning another English club’s colors feels both thrilling and surreal.
Adding fuel to the fire is De Bruyne’s past admission of boyhood admiration for Liverpool. Growing up, he idolized Michael Owen, the Reds’ former talisman, and once dreamed of playing at Anfield. “My favourite club is Liverpool and my favourite player is Michael Owen,” a young De Bruyne once said, a sentiment he later reaffirmed. This connection has sparked fevered speculation, especially given Liverpool’s status as City’s fiercest rivals in recent years. Could the Belgian, who’s tormented the Reds with four goals and eight assists in 17 career clashes, really swap sky blue for red?
The emotional weight of leaving City isn’t lost on De Bruyne. Reflecting on his decade in Manchester, he spoke of the city that’s shaped his life. “My kids were born in Manchester, lived their whole life here,” he noted, hinting at the bittersweet nature of his departure. His family’s happiness will be a key factor in his decision, and he’s yet to discuss options with them. “I haven’t seen my family since the decision,” he admitted, underscoring the whirlwind of his current reality. For now, his focus remains on City’s push for Champions League qualification, but the future looms large.
For fans, the prospect of De Bruyne in another Premier League shirt is a narrative twist few saw coming. His legacy at City—marked by moments like his jaw-dropping performance in a 4-0 Champions League thrashing of Real Madrid in 2023—is secure. But at 34 by next season, he believes he has more to give. “I love football – I love to play football and if a nice project comes and my family is also good with that, we will be able to make a decision,” he said, leaving the door ajar for a move that could reshape the Premier League’s landscape.
As the season unfolds, De Bruyne’s every pass and goal will be watched with bated breath, not just for what it means for City but for the clues it might offer about his next destination. Will he chase a new challenge in England, perhaps even at Anfield, or venture abroad? One thing is certain: the football world is listening as closely as he is.