Kevin De Bruyne will have one final opportunity to add to his remarkable trophy collection with Manchester City when he lines up for the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace on Saturday — a fitting send-off for the club’s most decorated player.
The Belgian maestro is set to depart the club at the end of the season, bringing a glittering decade at the Etihad to a close. While his time in the Premier League wraps up shortly, the Wembley showpiece offers a last chance for silverware and a triumphant farewell.
De Bruyne, 33, has won six Premier League titles, five League Cups, and a Champions League trophy during his time in Manchester. A win on Saturday would secure his third FA Cup and further cement his legacy as one of the greatest players in the club’s history.
Speaking recently, the midfielder expressed surprise that City had not made an effort to extend his contract, as he still feels capable of competing at the highest level. Despite a season hampered by injuries and inconsistency, his class was on full display last month when he scored and assisted in a 5-2 comeback victory over Palace.
City will be hoping for more magic from their talisman to end a disappointing campaign on a high. Following a historic run of four consecutive Premier League titles, Pep Guardiola’s side has faltered this term, currently trailing champions Liverpool by 18 points and scrambling to finish inside the top five for a Champions League place.
De Bruyne’s reduced output — just six goals and eight assists this season from a total of 108 goals and 177 assists in 419 appearances — has mirrored City’s struggles. Nevertheless, his influence remains profound.
‘He deserves to leave like a champion’
Striker Erling Haaland paid tribute to his teammate’s enduring quality, describing the midfielder as “irreplaceable”.
“To get the balls from him is a dream,” Haaland said. “It’s been really special playing with him. Such a joy. I’ll do everything I can to enjoy these last few matches with him.”
He added: “The future will be different. Kevin is irreplaceable in so many ways.”
Guardiola, too, acknowledged the midfielder’s legacy, appearing almost regretful for having sidelined him at times this season in an attempt to refresh an ageing midfield.
“The gratitude I have — we all have — is huge,” said Guardiola. “Kevin is the player with the most titles in the club’s history, and that says everything about what he has done for us.”
A mural commemorating De Bruyne and his achievements was unveiled in Manchester city centre on Thursday, and Guardiola has hinted that a statue outside the Etihad Stadium is also in the pipeline.
But perhaps the most meaningful tribute would be to see De Bruyne bow out with another winner’s medal.
“The whole team only has one thought, and that’s to try and win the trophy and make the day special for Kevin,” said midfielder Mateo Kovacic. “For everything he’s done, he deserves to leave like a champion — which he obviously is. He’s a massive part of City’s success and will go down as one of the best.”
