There was enough to imagine an apotheosis outing, farewells worthy of the player he was. But no. The story between Kevin by Bruyne and Manchester City is likely to end in an icy silence. According to several sources close to the club, the Belgian told his leaders that he no longer wanted to be aligned until the end of the season. A refusal that creates surprise, even discomfort, as the relationship between the player and the club seemed hitherto based on mutual respect and loyalty. But something broke.
It is especially the World Cup planned this summer in the United States that crystallizes tensions. De Bruyne, at the end of the contract on June 30, refused to extend his lease for a few additional weeks to participate. The player does not want to risk an injury when he must soon negotiate with other clubs. An understandable decision on the substance, but poorly perceived by a part of the supporters who hoped for a last contribution from the Maestro to win a final world trophy.
From Bruyne, would his departure from Man City be an evil for a good?
It should be remembered that it was not from Bruyne who decided to leave. In April, he learned that the club would not offer him an extension, despite eleven years of loyalty and a major contribution to the successes of the Guardiola era. He said he was shocked by this decision, describing it as ungrateful with regard to what he has brought. A cold break, without public explanation, which fuels the feeling of injustice in the player. This would also explain this gradual withdrawal of the land.
De Bruyne refuses the last dance with City
At 33, from Bruyne does not intend to hang up. He wants to continue his career in another project, with strong status. But he knows that everything will depend on his physical condition this summer. This is also why he refuses to take the slightest risk: an injury to the World Cup would ruin his chances of signing in a large European club or in MLS. This strategic choice reveals a lucid man on his priorities.
And that is perhaps what is the most saddened. The fact that the most emblematic player of the decade in City left by the small door. Without ceremony. Without final standing ovation at the Etihad stage. Just an abrupt end, tainted by a mutual misunderstanding. The end of an era, without shared emotion.
