Manchester City fans experienced an emotional moment as Kevin De Bruyne played his final home game at the Etihad Stadium. Coach Pep Guardiola couldn’t hold back his tears as the Belgian star said his goodbyes after the match.
The club, which was once Premier League champions, has decided not to renew De Bruyne’s contract. His current deal ends this summer, and the 33-year-old will now leave the team as a free agent.
De Bruyne has been an important player for Manchester City over the last 10 years. During his time at the club, he won six Premier League titles and one UEFA Champions League trophy.
In his final match at home, De Bruyne had a chance to score against Bournemouth but missed. Still, City secured a 3-1 win, pushing them up to third place in the league.
After the game, the stadium lights dimmed. De Bruyne walked onto the pitch with his wife Michele Lacroix and their three children – Mason, Rome, and Suri. The fans sang his name as he stepped out for one last time.
City players and staff showed their respect by giving him a guard of honour. De Bruyne walked to the center of the pitch as fireworks and small lights lit up around him.
When asked how he felt, De Bruyne simply said, “Very emotional.”
Manager Pep Guardiola couldn’t hide his feelings either. He was seen in tears as De Bruyne stood quietly, taking in the emotional farewell and the love from the fans.