Kevin De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City is becoming a hot topic as his contract nears its expiration date, with the Belgian midfielder weighing options for what could be his final chapter in professional soccer. Now 33 years old and one of the most celebrated players in the Premier League, De Bruyne has been a pivotal figure at City, guiding the club to six league titles, two FA Cups, and the Champions League. Yet despite his status and contributions to City’s golden era, a renewal isn’t guaranteed, and De Bruyne has reportedly begun considering a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States, specifically with San Diego FC, a new club debuting in the league in 2025.
According to sources from *GiveMeSport*, De Bruyne’s representatives have had early discussions with San Diego FC, though these talks are still at a preliminary stage. Reports suggesting the club has offered De Bruyne a salary in the region of $20 million annually have been dismissed as speculative, but a lucrative offer could certainly be on the table. The Belgian’s interest in MLS over a highly competitive offer from the Saudi Pro League underscores his desire to take on a fresh challenge and lifestyle, one he reportedly sees aligning more with the U.S. market. However, City fans may take solace in the fact that De Bruyne’s departure would not occur before next summer at the earliest, as he remains critical to Pep Guardiola’s pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title. Guardiola himself is believed to want to keep De Bruyne for as long as possible, but City’s hesitance to offer a long-term, high-value contract due to the player’s age and recent injuries has opened the door for other suitors.
De Bruyne has seen his recent seasons disrupted by injuries, with a major hamstring setback this season sidelining him for nine games so far. Although he’s yet to return to full fitness, his impact when on the field remains undeniable. Last season, despite starting only 15 games, he contributed four goals and 10 assists, showcasing his consistent playmaking ability. This season, though, has reinforced concerns over De Bruyne’s durability; his hamstring issues, coupled with his age, have limited his appearances, which has reportedly influenced City’s management to consider their options carefully before committing to an extended contract.
If De Bruyne does head to MLS, he would join an elite group of international stars who have transitioned to the U.S. league. Lionel Messi’s high-profile transfer to Inter Miami in 2023 undoubtedly raised the league’s profile and demonstrated the appeal of MLS to globally renowned players looking for new adventures outside Europe. For De Bruyne, the U.S. offers an appealing destination both on and off the field, as he and his family reportedly favor a move to the West Coast over relocating to the Middle East, where Saudi Pro League clubs such as Al-Nassr, which already hosts Cristiano Ronaldo, are also vying for his signature.
Al-Nassr remains persistent in their pursuit, with *TEAMtalk* reporting that the Saudi club is optimistic about bringing the 107-cap Belgian to their ranks. Given his experience, technical skill, and continued popularity, De Bruyne would be a marquee signing for Al-Nassr, adding to the Saudi Pro League’s expanding roster of international talent. The Saudi club’s confidence reportedly stems from City’s caution in offering a new deal to a player with injury concerns and advancing years, factors that could tilt the scales in favor of a move if De Bruyne ultimately chooses to seek a more stable contract outside England.
As City’s season progresses, speculation around De Bruyne’s future remains intertwined with other potential player movements at the club. The fate of Erling Haaland, City’s prolific goal-scorer, has also been a subject of intense interest, particularly with reports linking him to a possible future move to Real Madrid. Haaland, who joined City from Borussia Dortmund, is believed to be considering a release clause in any new contract to facilitate a transfer to the Spanish giants down the line. Such an agreement would not only protect City’s investment but also provide Haaland with a pathway to a club he has reportedly admired since his youth.
If Haaland were to depart, City has already identified a potential replacement: Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish striker has been in exceptional form, netting 13 goals in 13 games for Sporting this season, and could be the ideal fit for City’s dynamic attack. Gyökeres’ goal-scoring efficiency and ability to work within a team-focused offensive structure make him an attractive prospect should Haaland eventually exit. Meanwhile, City has also been linked to Real Madrid’s rising star Arda Güler as a potential successor to De Bruyne, a move that could provide the club with creative stability should the Belgian maestro decide to leave.
While De Bruyne’s potential departure would mark the end of an era at City, it’s a natural transition in the life of a club as successful as Manchester City. His legacy is already secure, with countless assists, iconic goals, and moments that have cemented his place as a club legend and one of the greatest players to grace the Premier League. Should he choose MLS, he would join a growing roster of former Premier League players bringing their experience and star power to the U.S., contributing to the league’s rising profile. A move to San Diego would provide a fitting backdrop for De Bruyne’s style of play and brand, and as MLS continues to expand and attract global icons, the league’s evolution into a serious draw for top-tier talent is accelerating.
Until then, De Bruyne’s immediate focus remains on helping Manchester City chase down another Premier League title and possibly further Champions League success. The club and its fans will savor every remaining appearance, knowing it could be part of his last campaign at the Etihad. Whatever his next step, whether in MLS, Saudi Arabia, or perhaps even a final stretch with City, Kevin De Bruyne’s legacy as a generational talent in English football is firmly established.