Kevin De Bruyne’s Manchester City exit: A decade of brilliance comes to an end

As they say “all good things come to an end,” after a decade of dazzling displays and trophy-laden glory, Kevin De Bruyne has confirmed his departure from Manchester City at the end of the 2024/25 season. The Belgian midfield maestro, whose contract expires in June, announced the decision via an emotional social media post on April 4, marking the end of an era at the Etihad Stadium. As one of the Premier League’s greatest-ever midfielders, De Bruyne leaves behind a legacy defined by sensational stats, match-defining performances, and a playing style that redefined creativity. This piece is set to explore his extraordinary journey with the Citizens.

De Bruyne record-breaking tenure in Manchester City

De Bruyne joined Manchester City from Wolfsburg in August 2015 for a then-club-record £55 million. Over 10 years, he played 413 matches, scoring 106 goals and delivering 174 assists, an astonishing average of a goal or assist every 108 minutes. His trophy record is equally staggering: six Premier League titles, five League Cups, two FA Cups, two Community Shields, a Champions League, a UEFA Super Cup, and a Club World Cup. He twice won the Premier League Player of the Season award (2019/20, 2021/22), becoming the first City player to claim it, and matched Thierry Henry’s record of 20 assists in a single league campaign (2019/20).

These numbers tell a story of consistency and excellence. De Bruyne’s 174 assists rank him second all-time in the Premier League, behind only Ryan Giggs (162 in 632 games), achieved in far fewer appearances. His 90 goals under Pep Guardiola (372 games) outpace many strikers, while his 161 assists in that span highlight his role as City’s creative anchor. Standout seasons include 2017/18, when he was the heart beat of City’s 100-point campaign with 16 assists, and 2022/23, where his 16 goals and 23 assists helped secure a historic treble.

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De Bruyne performances for the Citizens

De Bruyne’s Etihad tenure is brilliant. His debut season set the tone 16 goals and 15 assists, including a stunning strike against PSG in the Champions League. The 2017/18 season saw him orchestrate City’s record-breaking title run, with a 40-yard assist to Leroy Sane against Stoke City which was named one of the greatest passes in Manchester City. In 2019/20, he matched Henry’s assist record with a four-assist masterclass against Norwich, while his 2023 brace against Arsenal clinched a pivotal 4-1 win in the title race.

Big games brought out his best. A free kick against Barcelona (2016), a late winner at Atlético Madrid (2022), and a rocket against Real Madrid in the 2023 Champions League semi-finals showcased his clutch gene. Yet, injuries—like the hamstring tear that forced him off in the 2023 Champions League final, merged his glory with frustration. Even in his final season, hampered by a groin issue, he’s managed 11 goal involvements in 28 games, proving his enduring quality.

De Bruyne playing style

De Bruyne’s style is a clear combination of vision, precision, and power. A central midfielder with the soul of a No. 10, he’s redefined the position with his ability to dictate and control games. His passing range both short, incisive through balls or striking 50-yard diagonals, made defenses vulnerable. Per 90 minutes, he leads the Premier League in chances created (3.8), expected assists (0.35), and passes into the box (2.9), even in 2024/25. His 78% pass completion as a forward-thinking playmaker defies logic.

De Bruyne is also physically strong, averaging 11.5 km per game at his peak, he pressed relentlessly, a type of football quality that Guardiola always demand. His shooting, too, was lethal: 15 goals in 2022/23, many from distance, showed his ability to bring out the spectacular, earning praises from Guardiola, other managers and even teammates. De Bruyne’s footballing IQ is very good that he could turn half-chances into goals with a single touch.

De Bruyne legacy at the Etihad

Kevin De Bruyne leaves as City’s most decorated player (19 medals) and arguably their greatest. He turned the Etihad into a fortress of flair, driving an era of dominance with a style that married artistry and grit. As he bids farewell, fans will remember not just the trophies, but the moments, the passes, the screamers, the determination that made him unforgettable. The king of assists exits, but his imprint on Manchester City lives forever.

Conclusion

De Bruyne’s departure, announced with a heartfelt “Dear Manchester” letter, reflects a mutual understanding. At 33, injuries have slowed his once-unstoppable edge his 28 games this season is poor compared to the 49 of 2022/23. Guardiola, needing players for two matches in a week, has leaned on youth, with De Bruyne’s minutes managed carefully. Rumors of moves to Saudi Arabia or MLS have been escalating, but his legacy at the Etihad is secure.