Pep Guardiola Bids Emotional Tribute to Kevin De Bruyne, Calls Him “One of the Greatest Ever”
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has paid glowing tribute to Kevin De Bruyne, calling him “one of the greatest Premier League players ever” following the Belgian’s announcement that he will leave the club at the end of the season.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Guardiola described De Bruyne’s upcoming departure as “a sad day” for everyone associated with the club, emphasizing the playmaker’s profound impact both on and off the pitch.
A Decade of Brilliance
De Bruyne joined City in 2015 for £55 million from Wolfsburg and has since become a generational talent in English football. In ten glittering years at the Etihad, he has helped the club to an incredible 16 major trophies, including:
🏆 6 Premier League titles
🏆 5 League Cups
🏆 2 FA Cups
🏆 1 Champions League
🏆 2 Community Shields
But beyond the silverware, De Bruyne’s vision, creativity, and consistency have been unmatched. His ability to control games, produce moments of magic, and remain a key figure even as the squad evolved speaks volumes of his class.
Guardiola’s Words: More Than Just Praise
“It’s a sad day. What he gives all of us, which is humanity — and of course, I don’t have to tell you his influence on our success in the last decade — it would be impossible to imagine without him,” Guardiola said.
Those words reflect more than just admiration for a great footballer — they echo a deep emotional bond between coach and player, and a recognition of De Bruyne’s integral role in Manchester City’s modern dynasty.
Opinion: A Legacy That Transcends Numbers
Kevin De Bruyne leaves behind a legacy that goes beyond stats. Yes, his assists, goals, and trophies speak volumes, but his elegance, intelligence, and humility elevated him to footballing royalty. For many fans, his exit will feel like the end of an era — the heartbeat of City’s midfield, and arguably the best passer the Premier League has seen.
Whether you're a City fan or not, it’s hard not to respect what De Bruyne has achieved. He didn't just play the game; he elevated it.
And now, as he prepares to move on, one thing is certain: the Premier League won’t be the same without Kevin De Bruyne.
Where do you think he ranks among the all-time greats?
