Midfielder’s Time at Manchester City Nears Its End with MLS Move Looming | OneFootball

Kevin De Bruyne’s MLS Move: A New Chapter for a Modern Great

Kevin De Bruyne’s impending departure from Manchester City marks the end of an era for one of the most influential midfielders in Premier League history. As reported by TBR Football, the Belgian maestro is set to leave the Etihad when his contract expires this summer, with MLS newcomers San Diego FC leading the chase for his signature.

At 33, De Bruyne remains a world-class talent, capable of dictating games with his vision, passing, and leadership. His impact on English football has been immense—14 major trophies, countless assists, and moments of genius that define an entire generation of Manchester City dominance. But now, as his time in Manchester winds down, all eyes are on his next move.

San Diego’s Ambitious Plans

San Diego FC are wasting no time in building a competitive squad for their inaugural MLS season, and TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey reports that they are close to finalising a deal for De Bruyne. The newly-formed franchise has one Designated Player slot left, seemingly reserved for a marquee signing of De Bruyne’s calibre.

Photo: IMAGO

MLS has become a haven for European stars in the latter stages of their careers, with Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami setting a precedent. However, landing a player of De Bruyne’s influence would be a statement of intent from San Diego FC, instantly elevating their status as a force in North American football.

“San Diego are confident that De Bruyne, who turns 34 this summer, is close to finalising terms to move to California,” reports TBR Football. His potential arrival would not only boost the club’s global profile but also reshape their tactical outlook, with De Bruyne’s creativity and intelligence set to revolutionise their midfield.

City’s Next Move – The Search for a Successor

Losing Kevin De Bruyne is a seismic moment for Manchester City. His ability to unlock defences with a single pass has been irreplaceable, but the club is already scouting for his successor.

According to TBR Football, one name that has surfaced is Charles De Ketelaere, currently playing for Atalanta. Described as a ‘complete’ player by Club Brugge icon Gert Verheyen, the Belgian international has been likened to Liverpool cult hero Roberto Firmino.

“A naturally selfless player, De Ketelaere has taken to acting as a ‘false nine’ as if it were a position he has played all his life,” writes Goal.com. His versatility and tactical intelligence could make him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s fluid attacking system.

While replacing De Bruyne outright is an impossible task, City’s recruitment strategy is always meticulous. If De Ketelaere is their chosen target, expect them to move swiftly in the market.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There’s a mix of expectation and nostalgia surrounding De Bruyne’s next move. For Manchester City fans, seeing their greatest-ever midfielder leave will be painful, but his legacy at the Etihad is untouchable.

From a San Diego FC perspective, this is a monumental signing. MLS has long been accused of being a retirement league, but with Messi, Busquets, and now potentially De Bruyne, the quality and competitiveness are undeniably improving. If De Bruyne signs, expect sold-out stadiums, global attention, and a serious shift in MLS dynamics.

For Manchester City, De Ketelaere is a promising but unproven option. Comparisons to Firmino are flattering, but transitioning from Serie A to Guardiola’s high-intensity demands is a different challenge altogether.

Ultimately, City must find solutions fast. Losing De Bruyne without a clear-cut replacement could disrupt their dominance. Meanwhile, San Diego’s dream signing might just become reality—and if it does, MLS will never be the same again.