Kevin De Bruyne Likely to Skip Club World Cup Amid Contract Uncertainty

Manchester, England – Kevin De Bruyne, the 33-year-old midfielder for Manchester City, has expressed doubts about participating in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup this summer due to contract uncertainties. De Bruyne’s current contract with City expires at the end of June, raising concerns about his involvement in the tournament scheduled from June 14 to July 13 in the United States.

De Bruyne’s decision not to extend his contract means that the matches against Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday and Fulham on the final day of the Premier League season will reportedly mark his last games with the club after 10 successful years. He has won six Premier League titles and the Champions League, but he voiced frustration over the timing of the new tournament.

“It doesn’t make any sense,” De Bruyne said following City’s FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace on Saturday. “When you push in new tournaments in the middle of a contract situation, I have to take care of myself. If I get injured in the Club World Cup, what am I going to do?”

He acknowledged that the decision about his participation is complicated. “There’s a big chance I probably won’t play it,” he added, recognizing that he needs to prioritize his health and family commitments.

The Belgian international stated he is not in a hurry to decide his next steps beyond Manchester City. “Everything has to fall into place for my family and for myself,” he remarked. With three children and a wife, he is considering what would be the best option for them.

As speculation around his future grows, De Bruyne has hinted at the possibility of moves to other teams, with Chicago Fire of Major League Soccer being mentioned as a potential destination. While he remains unsure about his next club, he emphasized that he is open to any viable option, whether in the Premier League or elsewhere.

“I just want to enjoy and still play some football in the future,” De Bruyne noted. He emphasized the ins and outs of contract negotiations often complicate players’ decisions, especially with contractual timelines that do not align with competitive games.

As he prepares to take the field one last time for Manchester City, De Bruyne remarked, “I’m fine. It’s going to be weird, I’m going to try and enjoy it.” His focus now shifts to concluding his City career on a positive note.