Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne turned down “approaches” from Saudi Arabia after the Champions League final earlier this year, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Belgian was given the opportunity to make a lucrative switch to the Middle East but Romano says the player wasn’t interested in the move:
“Kevin De Bruyne received approaches from Saudi clubs after the UCL final. De Bruyne’s answer was clear: no, thanks – as he wanted to stay and fight for titles again at Man City.”
Fans on X are understandably delighted that De Bruyne opted to remain at the Etihad, with many praising his loyalty to the club:
He’s a citizen through and through 💙
— Makena mati (@makena_mati) September 10, 2023
Loyalty
— kgaudi Sebopa (@kgaudisebopa_46) September 10, 2023
He really wants Ballon d’Or
— – (@KhalifaMCFC) September 9, 2023
it’s insane how city can keep players like the caliber of kdb, aguero and david silva so loyal to city. Best run club in the world.
— ☘️⚽️ (@mcfcCs) September 9, 2023
Respect that name Kevin De Bruyne 🫡💙
— Chubobo (@N_Chubobo) September 10, 2023
Kevin just doesn’t seem like that type of player I can’t lie
— XMancotywa25 (@MancotywaXhanti) September 9, 2023
Reason # 27182516 why I love him💙💙
— Kash (@_Kashimawo_) September 9, 2023
De Bruyne wants to continue winning
The 32-year-old has won 14 major trophies since arriving from Wolfsburg in 2015 and, with manager Pep Guardiola still at the club, there is the potential to win even more titles.
De Bruyne remains at the top of his game, demonstrated by the 10 goals and 31 assists he made last season, so there is no reason for him to semi-retire and join the exodus to Saudi Arabia.
City will have to do without him for a while
De Bruyne did injure his hamstring in the Champions League final back in June and, while he did return to fitness, he suffered a recurrence of the same problem in the opening fixture versus Burnley.
The Belgian international is expected to be back at the beginning of the New Year, having had surgery last month.
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