Kevin De Bruyne said goodbye to Manchester City fans at the Etihad Stadium after the win over Bournemouth. Coach Pep Guardiola burst into tears when there was information confirming that he would build a statue to honor the Belgian player.
De Bruyne made his final appearance at the Etihad when The Citizens beat Bournemouth 3-1. He played 70 minutes before preparing to end a decade of association with the Manchester team.
The Belgian midfielder left the field as a hero when he gave way to Nico Gonzalez in the 70th minute. Etihad stood up and sang De Bruyne's name. Before that, the 33-year-old missed the opportunity to score in the first half to have a beautiful ending with Man City.
De Bruyne left with his family and three children after the match when fans stayed to say goodbye. There was a film showing people involved with the club expressing their affection for De Bruyne on the big screen, making Guardiola cry.
The Belgian midfielder finally took the stage and said: "I want to bring joy to everyone, play attacking football, be creative and enjoy that joy.
I think my teammates and I have had many memorable moments over the past 10 seasons, even though football has won and lost. I think we have created something extraordinary, taking this club further than before.
I think life and career are a journey, with ups and downs. You have to overcome every moment and enjoy it. I don't know what to say in my speech to the fans. Maybe when I stand up, I will feel and speak according to my emotions at that time".
De Bruyne was later asked how he felt when a statue was built to honor him.
"That means I will always be a part of this club and I will represent a small part. Whenever I come back, I will be able to stand around myself. So I will always be here," De Bruyne replied.
De Bruyne's departure was confirmed in April this year after months of speculation as his contract was set to expire. The 33-year-old midfielder moved to the Etihad from Wolfsburg in 2015 for a club-record fee at that time and became one of Man City's greatest players.
The Belgian won six Premier League titles during his time at the Etihad and won the 2023 Champions League. Outstanding individual efforts have also helped De Bruyne win many awards. He has been named PFA Player of the Year twice.
De Bruyne's next move is currently the focus of attention as the player does not rule out the possibility of staying in Europe, including the Premier League. He was initially expected to move to MLS, but insists he wants to continue playing at the highest level.
