Pep Guardiola makes Kevin De Bruyne feelings VERY clear as Man City star announces exit

Kevin De Bruyne has announced he will be leaving Manchester City at the end of the season, with boss Pep Guardiola now taking the chance to pay tribute to the Belgian superstar

Pep Guardiola has hailed Kevin De Bruyne as one of the greatest players the Premier League has ever since after the Belgian announced he would be leaving Manchester City this summer.

De Bruyne has spent a decade at City, playing more than 400 times and scoring 106 goals. The 33-year-old has helped City to win six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups and one Champions League.

He has endured a number of injury issues over the past two years though and found it tough to break into Guardiola's plans. That has led to his decision to depart the Etihad at the end of his contract this summer.

De Bruyne is the final player remaining at City from the days before Guardiola took charge. But the Spaniard has formed a close attachment with the midfielder and took the chance to pay tribute to him on Friday.

Guardiola said: "Sad day. Happy day for the pleasure I live with him. What he gives all of us, his humanity and influence in our success wouldn't be possible without him. A part of us is leaving.

"He's one of the greatest in the Premier League, midfielders ever in this country. Always have to be respectful for players from Maine Road and last 20, 30 years. But come on, no doubt he's one of the greatest for sure.

"The doors are open for the rest of his life. Whatever he wants to do. The impact of some players transcends the pitch. He is one of them."

De Bruyne announced his exit with a statement on his Instagram account. He wrote: "Dear Manchester, Seeing this, you probably realise where this is heading.

"So I'll get straight to it and let you all know that these will be my final months as a Manchester City player. 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.

" 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.

"Whether we like it or not, it's time to say goodbye. Suri, Rome, Mason, Michèle, and I are beyond grateful for what this place has meant to our family. 'Manchester' will forever be on our kids' passports- and more importantly, in each of our hearts. This will always be our HOME.

"We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter. Let's enjoy these last moments together! Much love, KDB."

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