Guardiola: Outpouring from fans shows 'how much love was there'

MANCHESTER, England — Tears streamed down Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola's face during an emotional farewell to his captain Kevin De Bruyne, who closed the curtains on an illustrious 10-year career at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

City had just beaten Bournemouth 3-1 in a crucial penultimate Premier League game that saw it climb to third in the table, but the night was all about De Bruyne, who had played his final game at the Etihad in a sky-blue shirt.

A postgame video tribute featured former City teammates including Sergio Aguero, Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Fernandinho, Vincent Kompany, Joe Hart and Leroy Sane.

"Congratulations on your career, it was an honor to play with you. I wish you all the best my friend. Of course, you are a legend at Manchester City. And me too. See you, bro," Aguero said.

"Everyone was there, it was so, so nice," Guardiola said. "Ten years is a lot of games, a lot of titles, a lot of moments. Today summarized, a little bit, how much love was there."

De Bruyne announced last month he would leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season, but also said he was surprised that it did not offer him a new deal.

"It's a sad day. He will be missed," Guardiola said. "On the other side, I think it was a lovely day for him to make, again, a contribution to achieve a victory that is of massive importance."

The Belgian, who won 16 trophies in his 10 seasons at City, also matched a Premier League record for chances created, topping the standings alongside former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas on 846, according to Opta Sports.

Asked if he is irreplaceable, Guardiola said: "There are players who are irreplaceable, of course, so difficult to do. It's not about how much they provide in goals or assists or incredible steals. (It's) the connection, the way you play, and year by year, provide for this club that the people love."

The club announced after Tuesday's game that it would erect a statue of De Bruyne outside the Etihad.

"It means I will always be part of this club," the 33-year-old told the stadium full of supporters who had stayed to watch the postgame tributes. "I'll always represent a small piece of that.

"I think, after 10 years, it was about time somebody let me talk a bit, and it's time to say goodbye.

"I will be back, but we love you and will see you soon."

Proud of his legacy

De Bruyne said he was proud of his part in making Manchester City the dominant force of English soccer over the past decade.

He was honored before and after the match, as City closed in on qualification for next season's Champions League.

The Belgian won six Premier Leagues, five League Cups, two FA Cups and the 2023 Champions League during a glittering period of success for the club.

He scored 108 goals and provided 177 assists in over 400 appearances to leave his mark as one of the Premier League's greatest ever players.

"It's been an unbelievable ride, an absolute pleasure," De Bruyne told Sky Sports.

"I want to bring joy to people, play offensive football and be creative, that is what I am on the pitch for, and I want to have fun.

"I think we had a lot of fun over the 10 years.

"You win, you lose sometimes. It was a joy working really hard and creating something for this club, which made the club much better than it was before.

"I'm super proud."

Yet, De Bruyne's final night at the Etihad did not have the fitting, goalscoring end he deserved, after he wasted a glorious chance.

Getting on the end of an Omar Marmoush pass, and with the goalmouth gaping, the 33-year-old hit the crossbar. He gave himself "no excuses" for the slightest bobble before he struck the ball.

"It's terrible!" He added.

"My son is going to be very tough on me today."

Agencies