Kevin De Bruyne hosted an invite-only farewell party for Manchester City staff and teammates at a city restaurant on Wednesday night, as he prepares to conclude his 10-year tenure at the Etihad Stadium next month.
The 33-year-old Belgian international’s departure comes after a decision by club officials, with input from manager Pep Guardiola, not to offer an extended and improved contract beyond the end of June. De Bruyne and his family are now expected to seek a new opportunity outside the Premier League, with Serie A club Napoli and Major League Soccer team Chicago Fire reportedly interested in his signature.
Prior to the private gathering, Manchester City fans had the opportunity to bid farewell to De Bruyne. Approximately 50,000 supporters remained after a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth on Tuesday night to celebrate the player, widely considered the club’s greatest. During the on-field celebration, De Bruyne delivered a speech to fans, received signed gifts from teammates, was granted a lifetime season ticket, and was informed of plans for a statue of himself outside the stadium.
According to on-the-ground photographers in Manchester city centre on Wednesday night, De Bruyne organized a night out for his teammates and their loved ones. The Belgium international reportedly booked a restaurant for the occasion. Manager Pep Guardiola was observed arriving at the event via a short bike ride from his city centre apartment.
Jack Grealish was reportedly the last to depart the celebrations, leaving around 1:35 AM. De Bruyne himself remained with his wife until approximately 1:30 AM. Bernardo Silva and his wife were seen leaving the venue wearing masks featuring De Bruyne’s face. Erling Haaland reportedly left just before 1 AM via taxi with his girlfriend, Isabel Haugseng Johansen.
While De Bruyne’s significant contributions to Manchester City were celebrated, the club faces crucial fixtures. Pep Guardiola and his players must avoid defeat against Fulham on the road this weekend to secure a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League via a top-five Premier League finish. Following this, the majority of the squad will join their respective national teams before reconvening in June for the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
