After ten trophy-laden years at Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne has officially announced that he will leave the club at the end of the 2024-25 season. The Belgian playmaker, who will turn 34 in June, has confirmed that he will depart when his contract expires, bringing an end to a golden era at the Etihad.
“Football led me to all of you – and to this city,” De Bruyne wrote in a heartfelt farewell post on social media. “Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter.”
While injuries and age have seen his role diminish this season—just 16 Premier League appearances and only 8 as a starter—the Belgian’s quality remains undisputed. He has registered 4 goals and 7 assists in all competitions in 2024-25, despite being used sparingly.
As one of the finest midfielders of his generation, De Bruyne is set to attract widespread interest. Here are the most realistic destinations as he prepares for a new chapter.
1. New York City FC (MLS)
De Bruyne has long considered ending his career in Major League Soccer, and NYCFC represents the most seamless option. As part of the City Football Group, the club would offer continuity in terms of infrastructure and vision.
Living in New York, while keeping his family in a comfortable and cosmopolitan environment, appeals to De Bruyne. Though MLS wages are a significant step down from Europe or the Gulf, lifestyle and legacy may outweigh finances for the Belgian at this stage.
2. Inter Miami (MLS)
Any marquee player linked with MLS inevitably gets tied to Inter Miami. David Beckham’s side, already stacked with Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, could be an iconic final stop for De Bruyne.
The challenge? MLS allows only three Designated Player (DP) slots. With all currently filled, a major reshuffle—or a creative contract workaround—would be needed. Still, the idea of De Bruyne feeding passes to Messi in a packed Chase Stadium is a tantalizing prospect.
3. Al-Nassr (Saudi Pro League)
Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr are firmly in the race. Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the club is reportedly preparing a substantial offer to lure De Bruyne to Riyadh.
Sources indicate Ronaldo is personally pushing for the deal, believing De Bruyne’s vision and precision would elevate Al-Nassr’s midfield. If money becomes the decisive factor, this could be the most likely outcome—with De Bruyne potentially earning upwards of €50 million per season.
4. LA Galaxy (MLS)
If Inter Miami or NYCFC don’t materialize, LA Galaxy remains a traditional MLS landing spot for European stars. The club’s rich history and location in Los Angeles would offer lifestyle perks and global visibility, making it another viable U.S. option.
5. Fenerbahçe (Turkey)
Turkish giants Fenerbahçe are said to be preparing an audacious bid. While the Süper Lig doesn’t match MLS or the SPL in commercial reach, the club’s passionate fanbase and Istanbul’s appeal could be a wildcard factor. Their main hurdle? Wages and competitiveness.
6. Club Brugge (Belgium)
A romantic return to his homeland has been floated by Belgian media. Club Brugge, currently dominating the Belgian Pro League, could offer De Bruyne a chance to finish where it all began—close to family, and with continental football still on offer.
7. Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
A return to Germany is not impossible. De Bruyne starred at Wolfsburg before his Manchester City move in 2015. Dortmund could offer Champions League football, a competitive environment, and familiarity with the Bundesliga.
8. AC Milan (Italy)
AC Milan are reportedly monitoring the situation. Though their salary structure would make a deal difficult, the appeal of Serie A and the Rossoneri’s pedigree may attract De Bruyne, especially if he seeks one final European challenge.
9. Real Sociedad (Spain)
Real Sociedad has quietly emerged as an option. Playing in La Liga’s Basque region could offer a fresh challenge, and the team’s emphasis on possession and creativity might suit De Bruyne’s style. It’s a dark horse pick, but not out of the question.
10. Al-Ittihad (Saudi Pro League)
Should Al-Nassr fail in their pursuit, Al-Ittihad could swoop in. The club is no stranger to high-profile signings, having already landed Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté. A late Saudi bidding war cannot be ruled out.
De Bruyne leaves City as one of the greatest midfielders in Premier League history:
- 6x Premier League titles
- 2x PFA Player of the Year (2020, 2021)
- 4x Playmaker Awards
- 102 assists in the Premier League (as of April 2025)
- Club record for most assists in a single PL season: 20 (2019-20)
His next move may not define his legacy, but it will certainly mark the final act of a storied career. Whether it’s America, the Gulf, or a sentimental return to Belgium, football fans across the globe will be watching.
