Tears, Tributes and One Final Goodbye: Kevin De Bruyne Bows Out at the Etihad

As the lights dimmed on a decade of brilliance, Kevin De Bruyne said farewell to the Etihad Stadium — and to Manchester City — in an emotional night that left even Pep Guardiola in tears.

The Belgian midfielder, widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s finest-ever playmakers, was given a send-off befitting his legacy after what is expected to be his final home appearance for the club. With no contract renewal forthcoming, De Bruyne’s glittering ten-year spell at City is drawing to a close.

He began the night with the same intent and drive that has defined his career, and nearly marked the occasion with an early goal — but he blazed over from close range after a sweeping City move. It would be his only real chance to sign off in style on the pitch, though no one in the stadium seemed to care.

The emotion swelled as the full-time whistle blew. De Bruyne emerged once more onto the turf with his wife, Michele Lacroix, and their three children — Mason, Rome, and Suri — for one final walk around the pitch he has graced with such distinction.

As fans belted out his name, De Bruyne made his way to the centre circle, flanked by a guard of honour formed by team-mates and club staff. Fireworks flared, lights dimmed, and Guardiola — standing just yards away — was visibly overcome with emotion.

“It’s very emotional,” De Bruyne told the crowd during a pitchside interview, pausing more than once to gather his thoughts.

Messages from former colleagues followed on the big screen: Sergio Agüero, Vincent Kompany, Riyad Mahrez, Fernandinho, and others all sent in heartfelt tributes. “It was an honour to play with you,” said Agüero. “You are a City legend — and me too. See you soon, bro.”

Guardiola, normally composed and meticulous, struggled to hold back the tears throughout. This was not just a goodbye to a player — it was a farewell to the heartbeat of a golden era.

“Manchester is home,” De Bruyne told the crowd. “It’s where my kids were born. I came here with my wife not knowing what the future held, and never expected to stay 10 years. We’ve won everything together. The club is bigger now — and the players coming through will carry it forward.”

In typical fashion, the Belgian was quick to deflect praise. “Everyone inside and outside the club has pushed me to be the best version of myself. I’ve made friends for life. The guys on the screen and in front of me made me better than I ever imagined.”

Fans responded with chants of “we want you to stay”. He smiled, fought back tears again, and added: “There have been so many parades, so many unforgettable nights. It’s been a pleasure.”

In a gesture that cemented his legacy, City confirmed a statue of De Bruyne will be erected outside the Etihad. Upon hearing the news, he simply said: “It means I’ll always be a part of this club. Whenever I come back, I’ll see myself — and that’s really special.”

The family of City great Colin Bell then presented him with a commemorative shirt and a season card for life. A mosaic of his finest moments was unveiled as fans roared in approval.

In his final message to the crowd, De Bruyne said: “My family and I have always felt we belonged here. I know this season has had its challenges, but this team will come back stronger. It’s time to say goodbye — we’ll be back soon. We love you.”

The night concluded with De Bruyne and his family taking a lap of honour, waving to the crowd, before being tossed into the air by his team-mates — a fitting final tribute to a player who has given everything for the badge.

Micah Richards, on punditry duty for Sky Sports, summed up the mood: “To a lot of fans, he’s the greatest player to ever wear the shirt. What a career. It’s just hard to believe he’s being allowed to leave on a free.”

Guardiola, reflecting later, said: “It’s a mix of sadness and pride. We’ve all shared incredible moments with Kevin. The connection he has with this club will last forever.”

De Bruyne may still feature away at Fulham on Sunday — but the Etihad farewell is done. And what a send-off it was.