Guardiola Praises Kevin De Bruyne's Loyalty and Talent

Pep Guardiola opens up about the difficulty of parting ways with Kevin De Bruyne, one of Manchester City's most decorated players. Read more about their time together.

Pep Guardiola has admitted that parting ways with Kevin De Bruyne has been one of the toughest decisions during his time at Manchester City.

De Bruyne's contract with City is set to expire at the end of the season, and the club has decided not to offer him a new deal, paving the way for his departure.

Kevin De Bruyne expressed disappointment over not receiving a contract extension from Manchester City after a decade with the club. The 33-year-old has struggled with injuries over the past two years, impacting his playing time and effectiveness.

De Bruyne's departure marks another significant loss for City, following other notable players like Yaya Toure, Sergio Aguero, and David Silva. His exit will be one of the toughest goodbyes for manager Pep Guardiola.

“I have lived a lot of things with them, a lot, good moments and terrible, bad moments,” he said.

“Sergio, David Silva, all the players - we can make a long, long list and we are only nine years here.

“There are a lot of players that come in and after they leave, they are part of my life. It's impossible not to feel it. Of course, it's so difficult.

“The feelings that he (Kevin) has, I understand completely. It cannot be otherwise. I wish personally for him and his family all the best.”

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— Manchester City (@ManCity) April 27, 2025

Kevin De Bruyne is one of Manchester City's most decorated players, with 16 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League. City's FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest at Wembley on Sunday could mark a fitting farewell for De Bruyne if they win and secure Champions League qualification.

“It would be good, of course it would be,” Pep Guardiola said. “He's behaved unbelievably all these years and, this month, again, since he announced that he's in the last months here in Manchester City. It will happen until the end. He's trained really good. He's playing and helping us with his skills and his talents. I know he wants the best for the club.”