Kevin De Bruyne confirms Manchester City exit

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has confirmed reports of leaving the club at the end of the season.

The 33-year-old Belgian confirmed his decision through an Instagram post, calling his time at City "the best chapter" of his career.

De Bruyne, who is currently City's club captain, joined in 2015 from Wolfsburg. Since then, he has played a key role in City's success, winning six Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy.

In his heartfelt message to fans, De Bruyne wrote, "Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here -- and you deserve to hear it from me first."

He expressed his deep connection with the club, the city, and its people, adding, "Football led me to all of you - and to this City. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This City. This club. These people... gave me EVERYTHING. I had no choice but to give EVERYTHING back! And guess what - we won everything."

During his time at City, De Bruyne was one of the most influential players in English football. He won the PFA Players' Player of the Year award twice in the 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons. He is also second on the Premier League's all-time assists chart with 118 assists.

His contract with City is set to expire by June end. However, it is still uncertain whether he will play for the club in the FIFA Club World Cup, which will take place from June 14 to July 13.