Manchester City to ‘immortalize’ Kevin De Bruyne ahead of club legend’s imminent departure

Kevin De Bruyne has defined an era—not only at Manchester City but in the Premier League and across Europe—as one of the game’s most influential midfielders. With his departure from the club reportedly imminent at the end of the season, Manchester City is set to “immortalize” the Belgian star with a special tribute recognizing his incredible impact.

Acknowledging his farewell, City fans gave De Bruyne a heartfelt ovation with an enormous tifo during his final home appearance at the Etihad Stadium in a Premier League match against Bournemouth. But the recognition didn’t stop there.

Following the match, Manchester City officially announced plans to honor De Bruyne with a statue outside the Etihad, celebrating his 10 years of service and achievements with the club. The news was revealed immediately after the game—surprising even the player himself.

“It means I will always be part of this club. Whenever I come back with family and friends, I will be able to see myself so I will always be here,” the Belgian midfielder said to Manchester City official YouTube channel.

In addition to the statue, a mural honoring De Bruyne was unveiled in downtown Manchester on Wednesday, showcasing the midfielder alongside the 18 trophies he’s won during his time with the club—further cementing his legacy as a City great.

De Bruyne joins Manchester City’s Hall of Statues

Under Pep Guardiola, Manchester City have entered the most successful period in their history, with De Bruyne playing a central role in the club’s dominance of English football. He now joins an exclusive group of City legends who have been honored with statues for their contributions on and off the pitch.

The first players to be immortalized in statue form were former captain Vincent Kompany and midfield maestro David Silva in 2021. Although neither won the Champions League with City, their leadership helped lay the foundation for the club’s rise to European elite status. In 2022, Sergio “Kun” Agüero—the club’s all-time top scorer—received his own statue.

In 2023, three more legends from the 1960s—Mike Summerbee, Francis Lee, and Colin Bell—were also honored with statues. Now, in 2025, Kevin De Bruyne will join that exclusive group as one of the most impactful and beloved players in Manchester City’s history.