Kevin De Bruyne reveals disheartening details of contract talks with Manchester City | OneFootball

Kevin De Bruyne has spoken candidly about contract discussions with Manchester City in recent months and how all parties came to a decision on the midfielder’s future at the Etihad Stadium.

The Belgium international turns 34 in June and having struggled with recurring hamstring injuries – as well as a hernia earlier this season – he has helped spring Manchester City’s season back to life in the business stage of the campaign.

City have won three out of their last four Premier League games to take a giant leap towards securing UEFA Champions League football whilst being in the running to bring home an eighth FA Cup title for the club ahead of a semi-final tie with Nottingham Forest at Wembley.

It is set to be a busy summer at the Etihad Stadium and incoming sporting director Hugo Viana has already started work behind the scenes to plan a squad revamp in the summer, which is likely to witness several outgoings and additions to Pep Guardiola’s squad.

De Bruyne is playing his final games in a Manchester City shirt whilst it remains unclear whether the playmaker will be involved in any capacity at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States between June and July.

City secured a crucial win against Everton on the road at the weekend and De Bruyne was given a fantastic ovation by the home fans as he went off in the second half on his final appearance at Goodison Park whilst at Manchester City.

Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone after Saturday’s win, the Belgian opened up on discussions with the board over a possible contract renewal and why it has come to an end between De Bruyne and Manchester City.

There was a little bit (of shock). I didn’t have any offer from them the whole year and Manchester City made a decision. Obviously I was a bit surprised but have to accept it,” De Bruyne said after the win at Goodison Park, as quoted by Aadam Patel writing for Mail Sport.

“Honestly, I still think I can perform at this level like I’m showing but I understand clubs have to make decisions. I told them (Txiki Begiristain and Ferran Soriano) I feel I still have a lot to give. I know I’m not 25 anymore but still feel I can do my job.”

It remains to be seen what the future holds for De Bruyne and where he will be playing his football next season and despite interest from the Saudi Pro League, it is understood the Belgian would prefer a move to the United States for his family should he decide to move out of the UK and Europe.

“I’m open for anything (next) because I have to look at the whole picture. I’m looking at sporting reasons, family, everything together, what makes most sense for me and my family. I still feel I can play at a good level, but I’ll have to make a decision once I really know a little more,” De Bruyne added.