Kevin De Bruyne has dropped a bombshell that could shake up next season's Premier League title race. The Manchester City legend admits he might consider joining another English club when his contract expires this summer.
The Belgian midfielder showed exactly why he remains one of football's elite talents this weekend. With City trailing 2-0 against Crystal Palace, De Bruyne sparked a remarkable comeback with a stunning free-kick and an assist in their eventual 5-2 victory.
At 33, many assumed the midfield maestro would head to the MLS or Saudi Arabia for a final payday. But his latest comments suggest Premier League fans might not have seen the last of him in England.
De Bruyne Still Hungry for Top-Level Football
"Next year I don't know what's going to happen," De Bruyne told Norwegian TV after the Palace match. "If teams come and they can convince me that something sporting is nice, a nice project, I'm able."
He quickly dismissed concerns about his age affecting his performance level. "I know obviously I'm not the youngest anymore but I still feel I'm able to perform at a very high level."
When directly asked if he might join another Premier League side, KDB didn't shut down the possibility. "I don't know. Honestly, I don't know. It could be, it could be not."
De Bruyne explained that his decision to leave City is still fresh, and he needs time to consider options. "I've not even seen my family since the announcement. So I need to speak with them and see whatever team wants me."
What This Means for Next Season
The prospect of De Bruyne lining up against City next season is mouth-watering for neutral fans and nerve-wracking for the Etihad faithful. Any top-six club that secures his signature would immediately strengthen their title credentials.
For betting enthusiasts, this news creates interesting possibilities. A De Bruyne transfer to another Premier League giant could significantly shift odds for next season's title race and top-four finish markets.
His creative passing and set-piece expertise would be a game-changer for teams like Arsenal or Manchester United. Players who have switched between rival clubs have historically had massive impacts on the league's competitive balance.
While Inter Miami remains the frontrunner for his signature, with David Beckham's club reportedly leading the MLS race, Premier League sides now have reason for optimism. The summer transfer window just got a lot more interesting.
Whatever happens, De Bruyne's next move will be one of the most watched transfer sagas this summer. For a player of his caliber to potentially stay in the Premier League would be extraordinary – and potentially reshape the competitive landscape next season.