The curtain has officially closed on an era at Manchester City. After the final whistle of the last Premier League match of the 2024/25 season, nearly 60,000 fans stayed in their seats not for the result but to bid farewell to one of the club’s all-time greats, Kevin De Bruyne.
City rolled out a touching post-match tribute for the 33-year-old midfield maestro who has worn the sky blue shirt for nine unforgettable years. As a highlight reel of his finest moments played on the big screen, fans stood in applause, many visibly moved. From thunderous long-range goals to inch-perfect assists, the clips were a reminder of how De Bruyne defined an era of success for the club.
Joined by his wife and children, De Bruyne stepped onto the pitch to a standing ovation. Manager Pep Guardiola, who has trusted and relied on him like no other, was seen wiping away tears as the moment unfolded. It was a profoundly emotional farewell between a coach and his most dependable player, a relationship built on mutual respect and excellence.
City presented De Bruyne with a commemorative jersey before his teammates lifted him into the air, celebrating the countless memories and victories they shared. But the tributes didn’t stop there. Manchester City announced plans to build a statue outside the Etihad Stadium, forever honouring De Bruyne’s legacy as one of the greatest to ever play for the club.
Even the Premier League paid tribute on social media, hailing De Bruyne as one of the finest creative players in league history.
Speaking after the game, Guardiola said,
“There are things money can’t buy. Kevin earned the love and respect of everyone here. We’re all grateful for everything he’s done through the years. This was his night. We wanted to win this one for him. Taking him off was tough, but he’s played so many minutes lately, including 100 minutes just days ago in the FA Cup Final. His body needed rest.”
De Bruyne’s farewell wasn’t just emotional, it was historic. With 846 key passes this season, he equalled the Premier League’s record for chances created in a single campaign, previously held by Cesc Fàbregas (since the 2003/04 season when detailed data began).
Since joining Wolfsburg in 2015, Kevin De Bruyne has made 382 appearances for Manchester City, scoring 102 goals and providing 166 assists. His time at the club has yielded an astonishing trophy haul:
- 5 Premier League titles
- 2 FA Cups
- 5 League Cups
- 1 UEFA Champions League
He’s been the heartbeat of City’s midfield, known for his vision, precision, and unmatched football IQ. From dominating English football to conquering Europe, De Bruyne has left a legacy that few will ever match.
As De Bruyne waved goodbye to the Etihad crowd one last time, it wasn’t just a farewell to a player, and it was the closing chapter of one of the most successful and iconic eras in club history. Wherever he goes next, Kevin De Bruyne will always be remembered in Manchester as a legend.
Thank you, Kevin De Bruyne. Etihad will always be your home.
