Pep Guardiola confirmed that it was his decision to call time about Kevin De Bruyne's career in Manchester City.
The Belgian announced on Friday that he would leave Etihad this summer after ten shimmering years.
KDB, 33, was broad-minded about expanding his stay in the city and perhaps even accepted a bit piece of playing role because his family settled in the area.
Yet Guardiola had been worried about his dip in shape after injuries.
Prior to the Manchester Derby on Sunday, Boss Pep said: “myself and the club had to make a decision. It is not easy because he has been extraordinary.
“I, Txiki Begiristain and the club have made the decision – and it is what it is.”
De Bruyne will be 34 this summer, but is now free from injury problems that chased him in recent seasons.
However, offering everywhere near the wages of £ 375,000 a week that the attacking midfielder currently deserves a large gamble of City.
Guardiola added: “The club must continue, go further. Replication his figures is so difficult. Day to say to these players is so difficult
“You can only be grateful. The club gave him everything – and he gave us everything.
Best free bets and registration offers
“I am incredibly grateful and sad that it will be over in two months.
“He is the only player who has ended his contract. The rest is under contract, but there are still many things that the club and myself have not decided.”
There will be questions about different stars while Guardiola is planting a summer suspension.
John Stones, Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji have all had an injury hit campaigns while skipper Kyle Walker was on loan in January.
The shape of Bernardo Silva and keeper Niererson is also immersed – which means that City is now looking for a Champions League place.
They spent more than £ 170 million in January, but will splash out more this summer.
And finding a replacement for De Bruyne is a priority, with Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, 21, their top goal.
Comments