Manchester City may be preparing for a seismic shift as rumors swirl about Kevin De Bruyne potentially leaving the club in 2025. While it may seem unthinkable to part ways with one of the Premier League’s most gifted midfielders, City’s decision to let De Bruyne go could be a strategic masterstroke that secures the club’s long-term dominance.
Kevin De Bruyne has been the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s midfield since joining the club in 2015. Over nearly a decade, he has delivered match-winning performances, clutch goals, and unrivaled creativity, helping City secure multiple Premier League titles, domestic trophies, and finally the elusive UEFA Champions League crown. However, at 33 years old in 2025, De Bruyne’s age, injury record, and massive wages are factors the club must seriously consider.
City’s management has long shown they are not afraid to make bold decisions — whether it was parting ways with club legends like Vincent Kompany, David Silva, or Sergio Agüero. Letting De Bruyne go now, while he still holds high market value and before any noticeable decline, aligns with the club’s forward-thinking strategy. It opens up financial and tactical flexibility, paving the way for a new generation of midfield talent to emerge.
Players like Phil Foden and new recruits such as Matheus Nunes and potentially even younger international stars are ready to step up. Guardiola and the club’s leadership understand that sustained success depends on evolution, not sentiment.
Letting De Bruyne leave won’t be easy for fans, but it’s a move rooted in logic. Manchester City are building for the next decade, not reminiscing about the last one. If the club does part ways with its talisman, it may well be one of the smartest decisions they’ve made — and a key to maintaining their place at the pinnacle of European football.