Man City’s management, in consultation with manager Pep Guardiola and director Txiki Begiristain, decided against renewing Kevin De Bruyne’s contract. Many people found out about De Bruyne’s official departure from Man City only two days before the Manchester Derby despite long-standing expectations. Guardiola chose to postpone his press conference while attending to the news which led him to show appreciation toward De Bruyne’s collaboration during their prosperous partnership. Long-standing injury problems during the last 18 months stood as a key factor for the team to let go of their midfielder according to Man City’s management.
Guardiola Confirms Collective Decision Behind De Bruyne’s Exit, Eyes Future Midfield Leader
He has now confirmed his direct involvement in the decision to end De Bruyne’s decade-long career, stating that “The club has to move forward. Move on.”
He also added “The decision has been made for the club. The club is the club. Me, Txiki and the club. It is what it is.”
According to Guardiola De Bruyne cannot be replaced but the club will eventually discover another player who can lead the midfield when De Bruyne is no longer there.
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Guardiola Reflects On De Bruyne’s Sacrifice And The Challenge Of Finding A Worthy Successor
“He’s injured the last year and a half because he gave everything for the club. It happened because he’s given everything with his body and his mind. There is no doubt about that,” Guardiola said.
“To replicate these numbers, and his kind of things, is so difficult. But we have to find other qualities. He’s the only player who has finished his contract, the rest are under contract, and still there are many things the club and myself haven’t decided on what we have to do.”
“Of course it’s difficult. People say, ‘OK Erling came to replace Sergio’. Sergio was irreplaceable for many things. It’s not about the goals. Football is nice when you can give emotion to the fans and Sergio gave something unique. Like Erling will be unique.”
An Emotional Farewell: Guardiola Pays Tribute To De Bruyne’s Legacy At Man City
“There are things that cannot be substituted. To say bye to these type of players is so difficult. There are players who are unique, who represent what the club wants to be. And Kevin is one of them. Now it’s a shock but people will remember how blessed and happy they were to see these type of player who gave us absolutely everything. You can only be grateful.”
“The club gave everything to him and he gave everything to us. My period here will always have Kevin there in my memories. He cannot be forgotten. Even in the bad moments. People say they will remember that everything was a fairytale. Of course it wasn’t.”
“I and the club had to take a decision. It is not easy for anyone. He has been extraordinary, so nice. I’m there and Kevin gets the ball, you don’t expect it to happen and it happens. After I can turn around to my box and celebrate with my family because Kevin made something. How many times did that happen? It’s why I’m incredibly grateful and sad that it will be over in two months.”
