Belgium national football team midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has decided to accept a reduced role at Manchester City in order to stay in shape for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026.
De Bruyne, who is one of the captains of the Red Devils is hoping to remain at City and compete at the highest level so that he can stand a chance to be selected in 2026 if Belgium qualifies for the tournament.
Age and Competition: A Challenge for De Bruyne
The former VfL Wolfsburg midfielder will be 35 years old by the summer of 2025 and will be low in the pecking order for selections. He is likely to be selected due to his influence and track record, however, he needs to stay at the top of his game to ensure this happens.
The midfielder is rumoured to be in his last season at City — his contract runs up in the summer and there are no talks of a renewal yet — with links to Saudi Arabia and the MLS growing by the day. However, he would accept a bit-part role to stay at the Etihad where he can play at the highest level as he looks forward to what could be his last ever mundial.
Contract Negotiations and Wage Reduction
The report goes on to say that City are willing to offer De Bruyne a short-term deal worth one season but with a significant wage reduction. This could see the Belgian go from earning £375,000-a-week to around £150,000-a-week. City are said to be planning to use his recent injury history and age as a leverage for their negotiations with the midfielder.
De Bruyne last addressed his future to reporters back in January. “I’ve not spoken to them for the moment,” he said at the time.
“I wanted to get better, I’m doing better, so I’m happy. We’ll see, something will happen. I don’t think wherever I go I’ll get a 10-year contract anyway, so I don’t need to stress.”
City may not be able to win anything this season if the negotiations go south and De Bruyne ends up leaving City at the end of the season, he will leave as one of the most successful midfielders to have played at the club.
Since joining the Manchester club almost a decade ago, De Bruyne has won six league titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups and the Champions League.
