Tue May 20 18:50:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Kevin De Bruyne is leaving Manchester City after 10 years at the end of the season when his contract expires. Pep Guardiola has called De Bruyne the second-best passer he has ever seen, only behind Lionel Messi. During his time at Manchester City, he has won 16 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League. His last home game will be on Tuesday against Bournemouth, where he will receive a farewell from the club.

**News Article:**

**Guardiola Ranks De Bruyne Second Only to Messi as City Farewell Looms**

**Manchester, UK** – As Kevin De Bruyne prepares to depart Manchester City after a decade of service, manager Pep Guardiola has lauded the Belgian midfielder as the second-best passer he has ever coached, placing him only behind the legendary Lionel Messi.

Speaking ahead of De Bruyne’s final home game against Bournemouth on Tuesday, Guardiola expressed his high regard for the departing player, ranking him above other midfield maestros he has managed, including Xavi, Andres Iniesta, and David Silva.

“Messi is the best I have ever seen,” Guardiola stated, “but Kevin is there. The stats, the goals, the assists… he is one of the best players this club has had in its history.”

De Bruyne’s illustrious career at City has seen him lift 16 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2023. The midfielder has played 258 league games under Guardiola, registering impressive stats, including 0.5 assists and creating 3.6 chances per 90 minutes.

City is reportedly considering replacements for De Bruyne, but Guardiola acknowledged the challenge, stating, “There are players who are really, really difficult [to replace] for many reasons.”

The club has planned a special farewell for De Bruyne after the Bournemouth match, including a guard of honour, a speech by the player, and a presentation by the family of the late club legend Colin Bell. His final game for the club is likely to be against Fulham. De Bruyne also said he probably will not play in the Club World Cup in the summer due to the risk of injury that would scupper plans to find a new club.

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