Pep Guardiola has acknowledged the monumental challenge Manchester City face in replacing Kevin De Bruyne, describing it as “almost impossible” to fill the void left by the Belgian maestro. However, the City manager stopped short of advocating for a U-turn on the club’s decision to let the 33-year-old depart at the end of the season, signaling acceptance of the midfielder’s impending exit.
De Bruyne, a cornerstone of Manchester City’s dominance over the past decade, announced earlier this year that the 2024-25 season would be his last with the club. His contract is set to expire in the summer, allowing him to leave as a free agent. Despite recent performances, including a match-winning goal against Wolves, that have showcased his enduring quality, Guardiola emphasized the club’s need to move forward while paying tribute to De Bruyne’s legacy.
“It’s almost impossible to replace this type of player,” Guardiola told Sky Sports after City’s 1-0 victory over Wolves. “It’s not just the performance, it’s what he means in the hearts of our fans for many, many years. The success we’ve had belongs to specific players, and this is one of them.”
The Belgian’s departure marks the end of an era for Manchester City. Since joining from Wolfsburg in 2015 for £55 million, De Bruyne has amassed 16 major trophies, including six Premier League titles, a Champions League, and multiple domestic cups. His 121 assists and 71 goals in the Premier League alone underscore his status as one of the competition’s greatest-ever midfielders.
Guardiola revealed that the decision to part ways with De Bruyne was a collective one, driven by the club’s strategic vision rather than the player’s desire to leave. “The decision has been made for the club, and the club is the club,” he said, referencing discussions with director of football Txiki Begiristain. Financial pragmatism and De Bruyne’s recent injury struggles, including a persistent groin issue, appear to have influenced the move.
Despite fans’ hopes that De Bruyne’s recent form might prompt a contract extension, Guardiola remained resolute. “I want the best for Kevin,” he said. “What we have done in these many, many years without him cannot be possible. He has been an incredible player, but the situation is what it is.”
Manchester City have already begun planning for life after De Bruyne, with Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz heavily linked as a potential replacement. The 21-year-old German, valued at over £100 million, is seen as a generational talent capable of carrying De Bruyne’s creative mantle, though competition from Real Madrid looms. Other names, including RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons and young City talents like James McAtee, have also been mentioned as possible options.
Guardiola dismissed suggestions that youngsters like McAtee could immediately step into De Bruyne’s shoes. “No one can do what Kevin has done,” he said, highlighting De Bruyne’s unique vision and ability to deliver in clutch moments. “When the players are up front and Kevin has the ball, they know they can run because the ball will be delivered.”
De Bruyne’s final home game at the Etihad Stadium is set for May 20 against Bournemouth, with a potential FA Cup final appearance against Crystal Palace on May 17 offering one last chance for silverware. The midfielder has expressed his desire to secure a Champions League qualification spot for City before departing, a goal he believes the team deserves.
As City prepare for a future without their talisman, Guardiola’s comments reflect both gratitude and pragmatism. “I just say thank you,” he said, acknowledging De Bruyne’s contributions against Crystal Palace and Wolves. “He’s finishing in this way, and I’m happy he’s doing it.”