Kevin De Bruyne’s Emotional Farewell: Manchester City Legend Bids Goodbye After 10 Iconic Years

Manchester City fans witnessed a night of raw emotion and celebration as Kevin De Bruyne said his final goodbye to the Etihad Stadium after a glittering decade of success. The club announced it would not be renewing his contract, marking the end of a remarkable era for one of City’s greatest-ever players.

De Bruyne, 33, played his final home game following Manchester City’s win over Bournemouth, with the night turning into a heartfelt tribute to the Belgian maestro. Although he missed a close-range chance during the match, the post-game ceremony became a historic and unforgettable send-off.

A Decade of Glory and Greatness

Since joining the club in 2015, De Bruyne has become synonymous with City’s modern dominance. His record speaks for itself:

• 6 Premier League titles

• 1 Champions League

• 5 EFL Cups

• 2 FA Cups

• 421 appearances

• Legend status cemented with a statue planned outside the Etihad

غوارديولا لم يتمالك دموعه في وداع دي بروين 💙#الدوري_الإنجليزي #مانشستر_سيتي_بورنموث pic.twitter.com/NkeW5L1rpC

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) May 20, 2025

Guardiola in Tears, Etihad in Song

As De Bruyne stood at the center of the pitch, flanked by his wife Michele Lacroix and their children Mason, Rome, and Suri, manager Pep Guardiola couldn’t hold back his emotions. The Spanish coach was seen wiping away tears as fans sang De Bruyne’s name one last time.

A moving guard of honour was formed by his teammates, as fireworks and lights illuminated the stadium in a breathtaking tribute.

Messages from Legends and Family

A video montage played on the big screen with heartfelt messages from Sergio Aguero, Vincent Kompany, Riyad Mahrez, and others. De Bruyne’s family also delivered emotional words as the star and his children watched, visibly moved.

“Manchester is home. I came here with my wife to stay for a long time, and we did. We’ve won everything together and made memories that will last forever,” said De Bruyne.

Statue Confirmed, Fans Chant “We Want You to Stay”

As part of the farewell, Manchester City confirmed a statue will be built in De Bruyne’s honor outside the stadium—joining fellow legends like Vincent Kompany and David Silva.

Upon hearing the news, De Bruyne responded:

“It means I will always be part of this club… I’ll be able to come back and see myself. That’s something truly special.”

Final Lap of Honour and a Promise to Return

The night ended with a lap of honour around the Etihad, as teammates threw De Bruyne into the air and fans stayed to sing until the lights went out. He was presented with a mosaic, a lifetime season ticket, and a commemorative shirt by Colin Bell’s family.

“After 10 years, it’s time to say goodbye. We will be back. We love you, and see you soon.”

What’s Next for Kevin De Bruyne?

It remains unclear if De Bruyne will feature in the Club World Cup this summer or play one final away game. But one thing is certain: his legacy at Manchester City is eternal.