Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne shared all the gory details of his Etihad exit in front of two club chiefs following their 2-0 win over Everton on Saturday, as the Belgian admitted he was “shocked” to be told he would not be offered a contract extension.
De Bruyne announced earlier this month that he would be ending his ten-year stay at the club in the summer. The midfielder has established himself as one of the best players in Premier League history after registering 119 assists and 71 goals in the top flight, while winning nearly every trophy possible for City, and should have plenty of offers as he prepares to turn 34 this June.
But after speaking to reporters in the corridor at Goodison Park, De Bruyne couldn’t hide his frustration over the fact that a decision over his City future had been taken out of his own hands – and didn’t seem overly concerned that CEO Ferran Soriano and director of football Txiki Begiristain were in earshot.
“It was Txiki and Ferran who told me,” he said – before it was pointed out that they weren’t far away from him. “I don’t feel awkward with them (being in the corridor). In the end it is what it is.
“You have to accept people taking decisions. I told them also that I still think I had a lot to give. Obviously I know I’m not 25 anymore but I feel like I’m doing my job.
“It came as a bit of a shock. I’m open for anything (including staying in the Premier League). I have to look at the whole picture, sporting, the family, everything together, what makes the most sense for my family.
“I don’t know what it is. It depends on when you speak to people about projects and things. I know I can play at a good level. I have to make that decision once I really know more (of the offers).”
De Bruyne’s comments should agonise City fans would wanted to see the legendary playmaker continue at the Etihad. It will also trigger memories of Mohamed Salah who spoke just as candidly after Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Southampton in November.
The Egyptian recently signed a new two-year deal but back then his future was very much up in the air. He suggested the club had not offered him fresh terms as he prepared to become a free agent.
The focus on Salah’s future has dominated headlines for much of the season, but De Bruyne has stayed quiet on his City career during this campaign. The Liverpool forward has repeatedly spoken out about the lack of new contract offer in order to send a message.
“Well, we are almost in December and I haven’t received any offers yet to stay in the club,” he said. “I’m probably more out than in. You know I have been in the club for many years. There is no club like this. But in the end it is not in my hands. As I said before, it is December and I haven’t received anything yet about my future.”
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