Watch Kevin De Bruyne’s dazzling performance against Manchester City. He got a big free-kick goal for them and an assist as they came back from down 2-0 to win 3-2. When last week, 33-year-old Sacha Kljestan announced that he and the New York Red Bulls would part ways at season’s end, it was a big deal. This news left room for widespread speculation on his future, having been previously rumored to both Major League Soccer (MLS) and the Saudi Pro League.
As City found themselves two goals down to Tottenham in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinal, De Bruyne’s free-kick kickstarted the comeback. He later assisted Mateo Kovacic, contributing to a significant victory for the club. De Bruyne’s performance was underlined by his ability to create opportunities. Although he scored only once, he noted that he “could have scored four.”
De Bruyne’s time at Manchester City has been a fairy tale. Over ten seasons, he has netted 71 goals and provided 121 assists, making him an essential part of the team’s success. Pep Guardiola acknowledged De Bruyne’s uniqueness and impact on the team, stating, “No one can do what Kevin has done.”
Even after that dream final, De Bruyne couldn’t tell you his plans going forward. “I don’t know what’s going to happen but I want to play on so we’ll see where I can end up,” he said. His family are said to be “a wee frightened” at what awaits them following his decision to leave City.
This season has been a difficult one for De Bruyne, who has been hampered by a recurring injury. “Having a hernia wasn’t fun but now I would say I’m basically pain-free for the last six weeks,” he shared. He said coping with pain was disconnecting and difficult. Now, he says, he’s finally fit enough to get through multiple training sessions and get back to his best.
Now, speculation is already reaching a fever pitch as to where De Bruyne might land. He hasn’t made his mind up yet over his next move following Manchester City. He’s still plenty committed to seeing the season out on a high, though, and hoping to provide more telling contributions before he leaves for good.
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