Kevin De Bruyne reacts to Man City’s refusal to offer him a new deal

Departing Manchester City captain Kevin de Bruyne has revealed he was shocked to be told his career with the Premier League side was over as he feels he can still perform at the highest level.

De Bruyne turns 34 in June but he will not be offered a new deal at Manchester City. The former Chelsea midfielder has penned an emotional message to fans of the club as he seeks a new challenge.

However, De Bruyne has opened up on his contract discussions with the club, revealing how surprising it is he has not been offered the chance to extend his 10-year career at the Etihad.

“I have not had any offer the whole year, they just took a decision,” he said.

“Obviously, I was a bit surprised but I just have to accept it. Honestly I still think I can perform at this level like I’m showing but I understand clubs have to make decisions.

“Maybe if the team didn’t struggle and I came back like I did this year and bedded in like normal then maybe they take another decision.”

De Bruyne said he has not made any decisions about his future as he is concentrating on the race to secure a top-five spot to extend City’s run in the Champions League into a 15th successive season.

“I feel like I still have a lot to give. Obviously I know I’m not 25 any more but I still feel like I can do my job,” he added.

“I’m open for anything. I have to look at the whole picture. I’m looking at sporting, family, everything together, what makes the most sense for me and my family.

“I like to play football. I like to compete. That’s what I feel so I can’t say that I want to quit because I still feel that whenever I’m in training I want to beat the guys.

“I feel like I’m doing really well and that’s why I’ve also played a lot lately.”

De Bruyne has already been linked with moves to Major League Soccer in the United States but it appears he still has designs on playing at the highest level he can for as long as he can.

It’s left to see where the Belgium international will play next season with some clubs in Europe eager to have him around.