Manchester City are set to face Juventus on Matchday 3 of the group stage in what will determine the top spot in their group. Both clubs have already secured qualification to the knockout rounds with comfortable victories over Wydad AC and Al Ain FC, respectively.

City have looked strong throughout the tournament. They opened with a 2–0 win over Wydad before demolishing Al Ain 6–0. While those opponents may not offer the highest level of competition, the results reflect City’s depth and ability to manage the absence of their longtime midfield maestro.

Why is De Bruyne not playing for Manchester City in the Club World Cup?

De Bruyne’s absence stems from the expiration of his contract with Manchester City at the end of June. Rather than extending his stay temporarily, the 33-year-old opted to step away from the squad and prioritize his next move as a free agent. While he had the option to participate in the Club World Cup, avoiding injury ahead of potential negotiations took precedence.

FIFA opened a special registration window for out-of-contract players ahead of the tournament, allowing them to sign short-term deals exclusively for the competition. Still, the risk of injury—and the impact it could have on a lucrative transfer—was enough to keep De Bruyne on the sidelines.

De Bruyne’s trophy-laden legacy at Manchester City

De Bruyne leaves Manchester City as a club legend, having made over 415 official appearances—ranking him among the most capped players in club history. Over his nine-year stint, he became synonymous with City’s identity and one of the most decorated players in their ranks.

His silverware haul includes six Premier League titles, five EFL Cups, two FA Cups, and three Community Shields. Most notably, he played a pivotal role in delivering the club’s most coveted trophies: the UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, and UEFA Super Cup. De Bruyne also joins an elite list of City players to score over 100 goals for the club, currently sitting at 106 goals.

As Manchester City continue their pursuit of global success without him, De Bruyne’s legacy remains firmly intact—etched into the fabric of one of soccer’s most dominant dynasties.

Just days after Javier Mascherano acknowledged that the club was open to using a special MLS transfer window (June 1–10) designed for teams participating in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Inter Miami confirmed a move that could facilitate a blockbuster addition. The club officially acquired an international roster slot from the Portland Timbers in exchange for $270,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM), clearing space to add a non-domestic player.

The GAM mechanism allows MLS teams to offset the salary cap hit of designated or high-earning players, making room for reinforcements without exceeding the league’s financial regulations. For Inter Miami, this move signals clear intent: they are gearing up to make another major splash ahead of a global stage.

Kevin De Bruyne on the radar

The transaction has reignited speculation surrounding De Bruyne, who has already confirmed he will leave Manchester City after the 2024–25 season. While he is still expected to play in the Club World Cup with Pep Guardiola’s squad, a post-tournament move to MLS—and specifically Inter Miami—remains plausible.

However, the logistics of the transfer are complex. De Bruyne’s current contract runs through June 30, which overlaps with the Club World Cup (set to conclude July 13). Additionally, Inter Miami have already filled their three Designated Player (DP) slots—with Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba—which limits their ability to offer De Bruyne a salary in line with his superstar status unless one of those DP spots is vacated.

Still, the recent signing of Baltasar Rodríguez proves the club is actively exploring new additions under more flexible financial terms. While De Bruyne would have to accept a significantly reduced salary if he were to arrive outside of the DP mechanism, the allure of playing alongside Messi in a growing American league could prove enticing.

Mascherano addresses transfer strategy

Speaking to reporters on Friday, head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the possibility of adding more elite talent to Inter Miami’s roster. “There will be a transfer window from June 1 to 10… Both FIFA and supposedly MLS have approved this window,” Mascherano said, via Deporte Total USA. “If there’s a chance to strengthen any position and bring in players, we’re open to exploring options.”

However, Mascherano made it clear that any incoming talent must be committed to the long haul—not just a short stint for the Club World Cup. “My idea is that if a player comes in, it should be for the entire season, not just for the Club World Cup,” he emphasized. “It would be disrespectful to the players who’ve been with us since day one.”

Mascherano concluded with a note of caution and ambition: “The idea is that, if someone comes, it’s really to strengthen us and make us better. We’re not going to sign just for the sake of it.” As the countdown to the Club World Cup begins, all eyes will be on Inter Miami. With the possibility of pairing Messi and De Bruyne, the club could soon field one of the most iconic duos ever seen in American soccer.

The 33-year-old recently revealed on social media that he will leave Manchester City at the end of the current season when his contract with the reigning four-time Premier League champions expires. De Bruyne has been with City since 2015, becoming one of the most decorated and consistent midfielders in the modern era.

While the Belgian international had been linked last summer to 2025 MLS expansion side San Diego FC, the move was shut down due to financial constraints. “I’ve had conversations with him, but I’ll tell you what: Those wages won’t fit our budget at the moment in terms of what his expectations are,” San Diego sporting director Tyler Heaps told reporters at the time.

However, according to ESPN’s Lizzy Becherano, Inter Miami currently holds De Bruyne’s MLS discovery rights, giving them a significant advantage should the midfielder decide to take his talents to South Florida.

How MLS rules help Inter Miami

Under league rules, each MLS team is allowed to list up to five players on their discovery list at any given time. By placing De Bruyne on that list, Inter Miami secured the exclusive opportunity to begin negotiations with him—without interference from other MLS clubs.

De Bruyne would arrive as a free agent, making the logistics far smoother for Miami, who are clearly looking to build an even more formidable roster around Lionel Messi.

De Bruyne’s farewell to Manchester City

In his heartfelt announcement last week, De Bruyne reflected on his time with City: “So I’ll get straight to it and let you all know that these will be my final months as a Manchester City player. Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. That day is here—and you deserve to hear it from me first.”

“Soccer led me to all of you—and to this city. Chasing my dream, not knowing this period would change my life. This city. This club. These people… gave me everything. I had no choice but to give everything back! And guess what—we won everything,” he wrote. “Whether we like it or not, it’s time to say goodbye.”

Should De Bruyne join Messi in Miami, the pairing would instantly become one of the most compelling storylines in world football—and a transformative moment for Major League Soccer.

David Beckham continues to prove that Inter Miami’s sporting project is highly ambitious. The club keeps pushing to attract the biggest stars in world soccer. According to David McDonnell of the Daily Mirror, Kevin De Bruyne could join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami. The Belgian star announced he will leave Manchester City as a free agent once the season ends.

With this, Mascherano’s team would now have three players who won the Champions League under Pep Guardiola: Sergio Busquets, Lionel Messi, and, if he joins the club, Kevin De Bruyne. Contrary to what many might think, neither Jordi Alba nor Luis Suarez played under Guardiola. Jordi joined the club the season after Guardiola left. Luis Suarez arrived in 2014, two years after the coach’s departure.

What Inter Miami would need to do to sign Kevin De Bruyne?

Major League Soccer has specific rules for salaries. Unlike most European leagues, MLS enforces a set salary structure. This system helps maintain a level playing field among all teams. According to the official MLS website, Inter Miami have a salary cap of $5.95 million.

Nevertheless, the Designated Player rule allows each MLS team to sign three players with salaries above the league limit. Inter Miami use their three slots on Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. To add Kevin De Bruyne, they would need to adjust at least one contract.

If the club hopes to bring in Kevin De Bruyne, it would undoubtedly require a lucrative contract. Because of that, the team would need a Designated Player spot. Messi’s position is untouchable. So, the club would have to move either Alba or Busquets under the regular salary cap. However, even with that move, they might still need to clear additional roster space. The standard cap likely would not cover all costs.

Which other teams could sign Kevin De Bruyne in 2025?

According to The Athletic, Kevin De Bruyne prefers a move to MLS over other options. Inter Miami have shown interest. However, other teams are also in the race to sign him. One of them is New York City FC. The club belongs to the City Football Group, which also owns Manchester City. De Bruyne has always had a good relationship with the group. That connection makes NYCFC a strong candidate. The team also has a free Designated Player slot.

Another possibility is the new MLS franchise, San Diego FC. Their sporting director, Tyler Heaps, spoke about De Bruyne. “I talked to the agent…I’ve had conversations with him, but I’ll tell you what, those wages won’t fit our budget at the moment in terms of what his expectations are.”

Still, De Bruyne has other options outside MLS. Two European clubs are in the mix: Fenerbahce and Galatasaray. Saudi Arabian teams are also interested. Among them are Al-Ittihad, Al Nassr, and Neom SC. He has many offers on the table. However, his next move remains unclear. He still has a few months left on his contract. A final decision could come soon.

Kevin De Bruyne took to his official X account, formerly known as Twitter, to announce that the current campaign will be his final season playing under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. “…’Manchester’ will forever be on our kids’ Passports, and more importantly, in each of our hearts. This will always be our HOME. We cannot thank the city, club, staff, teammates, friends, and family enough for this 10-year ride. Every story comes to an end, but this has definitely been the best chapter.”

Unlike in recent seasons, his role has diminished significantly. Even, he failed to appear in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League playoffs against Real Madrid. This season, he has totaled just 1,103 minutes. In that playing time, he scored just 2 goals and added 6 assists. Besides, injuries have also played a major role in his decline. They have affected his performance and consistency over the last two years.

Kevin De Bruyne faced a difficult run of injuries last season. He missed 151 days due to various setbacks. He entered this season hoping for a clean slate. Instead, he suffered a flexor muscle injury that sidelined him for 44 days. Considering the team’s bad performance, Man City decided to sign Omar Marmoush. He has stepped up and impressed increasing prominence in the squad. As a result, De Bruyne now struggles to find space in Manchester City’s starting lineup.

How Kevin De Bruyne became a Manchester City icon: Career highlights and achievements

Since joining Manchester City in 2015, Kevin De Bruyne has carved out a legacy as one of the most influential players in the club’s modern era. Over the course of 413 official appearances across all competitions, the Belgian midfielder has scored 106 goals and provided an astonishing 174 assists. Besides, he currently ranks second all-time in the competition’s history with 118 assists in the Premier League.

When he first arrived at the Etihad Stadium, some doubted whether he would win major honors with a club that lacked a long-standing tradition of dominance. Instead, De Bruyne became a cornerstone of the most decorated squad in Manchester City’s history.

Over the years, De Bruyne helped the club capture an astonishing collection of trophies, including six Premier League titles, five EFL Cups, two FA Cups, three Community Shields, one UEFA Champions League title, and one FIFA Club World Cup, an unprecedented haul for any City player.

There is no debating his status among the club’s all-time greats, and Pep Guardiola has made that clear on numerous occasions. “There is no doubt that he is one of the greatest, without a doubt,“ Guardiola told the club’s official website. “His assists, goals, vision in the final third of the field… he is very difficult to replace. Anyone can provide assists, but the amount of years and games in which he has done it is what makes him unique.”

Ronaldo’s current contract with Al-Nassr runs through June 30, 2025, but recent rumors suggest that the Portuguese superstar may be open to leaving the Saudi Pro League. While CR7 has often expressed his satisfaction with his time in Saudi Arabia, the lack of major titles during his tenure at Al-Nassr may influence his decision regarding a potential renewal.

Ronaldo joined Al-Nassr after the Qatar 2022 World Cup, completing the second half of the 2022-23 season. Since then, he has spent two full seasons with the club. Despite his individual brilliance, Al-Nassr have struggled to achieve significant success in the Saudi Pro League, which could weigh heavily on Cristiano’s future plans.

Another prominent star in the Saudi Pro League, Neymar Jr., also finds himself in a similar situation, with his contract at Al-Hilal set to expire on June 30, 2025. Neymar’s tenure in Saudi Arabia has been plagued by injuries, limiting his impact on the pitch. As speculation about his future grows, potential destinations such as Santos in Brazil or Inter Miami in Major League Soccer have emerged. Given his current circumstances, Neymar’s chances of remaining in the Saudi Pro League seem uncertain.

European stars with uncertain futures

England’s top clubs are also facing significant uncertainties regarding the futures of their star players as key contracts edge closer to expiration. At Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne is approaching the end of his current deal, which runs out at the conclusion of this season. When asked about contract talks recently, De Bruyne admitted, “No, nothing yet,” suggesting that discussions over his future with the club have yet to commence.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are grappling with even greater challenges, as three of the team’s most iconic players are in the final six months of their contracts. Mohamed Salah, one of the Reds’ cornerstone stars, revealed last Sunday that negotiations for his renewal are still “far away,” leaving his future at Anfield in limbo. Similarly, Virgil van Dijk is in a comparable position, though NBC Sports journalist David Ornstein has reported progress in discussions, with both Salah and Van Dijk potentially on track to sign two-year extensions.

However, the situation is notably more complex for Trent Alexander-Arnold. The 25-year-old defender is also nearing the end of his contract, but Liverpool’s efforts to secure his renewal may face a significant hurdle: Real Madrid‘s interest. The Spanish giants are reportedly keen on bringing Alexander-Arnold to the Bernabeu. With Real Madrid’s allure as one of the most prestigious clubs in the world, their interest could sway the Liverpool star’s decision, potentially complicating negotiations for the Reds.

Lionel Messi: A different scenario

Lionel Messi‘s situation differs from the others, as his contract with Inter Miami runs until December 31, 2025. Since Major League Soccer operates on a calendar year from January to December, Messi’s deal is structured accordingly. This means the Argentine forward is under contract until the end of the 2025 season, with the possibility of extension talks afterward. Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas has indicated a strong desire to extend Messi’s stay, and there’s little doubt that the two sides will reach an agreement.

Free agency: How it works

According to FIFA regulations, players with six months or less remaining on their contracts are free to negotiate with other clubs. This means that as of January 1, 2025, players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Mohamed Salah, and others whose contracts expire in June can engage in formal discussions with any club and even sign pre-contracts to secure their future beyond July 1, 2025.

With these key players entering the final stages of their contracts, the beginning of the new year could bring significant changes to the world of soccer, as clubs and players alike prepare for major moves.

According to Mirror, Inter Miami have set their sights on Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne as their next big signing for 2025. The 33-year-old has spent a decade at Manchester City, establishing himself as one of the best playmakers in the world and helping the English side to secure their first ever Champions League title in 2023. However, rumors have been swirling for months that this could be his final season at the club.

De Bruyne‘s contract with the Citizens is set to expire on June 30, 2025, and as of now, no renewal agreement has been publicly disclosed. If the situation remains unresolved, Kevin will be able to negotiate with any club worldwide starting January 1, 2025, as FIFA rules allow players with less than six months left on their contracts to enter into talks with potential suitors.

A difficult year for De Bruyne

The 2023-24 season was a challenging one for Kevin De Bruyne, as the Belgian midfielder struggled with a hamstring injury that sidelined him for five months. He returned early in 2024 to help Manchester City finish strong, contributing to their successful push for a fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Unfortunately, his injury woes continued into the new campaign. At the start of the current season, De Bruyne was hampered by a sports hernia, which kept him off the pitch for nearly two months. Having now recovered, the 33-year-old is gradually being eased back into action, with Pep Guardiola managing his minutes to help him regain his peak form.

The relationship between Guardiola and De Bruyne

Rumors have recently surfaced about a strained relationship between De Bruyne and Guardiola, which some have speculated could influence the player’s future at Manchester City. However, both parties have strongly denied these claims.

Guardiola addressed the rumors, saying: “People say I’ve got a problem with Kevin. Do you think I don’t want Kevin to play? The guy who has the most talent in the final third. I have a personal problem with him after nine years together?” Then the coach added: “He’s delivered to me the biggest success to this club. I’m desperate to have his best. But he’s been five months injured and two months injured. He’s 33 years old. He needs time to find his best.”

De Bruyne also clarified the situation. “I know a lot has been said. There have never been issues between me and Pep. He knows I’ve been struggling. It’s painful and uncomfortable,” he told BBC Sport. “I’m getting better slowly. I was able to play a big amount of minutes and not feel bad. It’s a relief.”

De Bruyne in Miami?

Should De Bruyne decide to leave Manchester City and pursue a new challenge in Major League Soccer, Inter Miami would be an ideal destination. With new coach Javier Mascherano potentially setting a fresh tactical direction for the team, De Bruyne’s skillset could complement the club’s ambitions perfectly.

With Lionel Messi occupying his usual role as an attacking player drifting from the right to the center and Luis Suarez leading the line as a center forward, Kevin De Bruyne could be the third offensive threat, positioned closer to the left. Alternatively, he could drop deeper into midfield alongside Sergio Busquets, helping to dictate play from there. The tactical flexibility is vast, and for Inter Miami, adding De Bruyne would represent a significant leap in quality for next season.

The problem is, Neymar’s Al-Hilal is the winner of all six of their games so far. CR7 is off to his usual start with five goals in six games. Still, in order to make that push and overtake Al-Hilal in the standings, Al-Nassr needs help.

According to the Daily Mail, help could be on its way in the form of Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who is also in the final year of his City deal and could be moving on from the club after ten seasons.

Kevin De Bruyne on Al-Nassr’s radar

According to the report, Cristiano Ronaldo personally asked the heads at Al-Nassr to sign De Bruyne, who is currently injured but has one goal in four Premier League games for Man City this season.

In February, Saudi Pro League officials signaled their intention to ramp up efforts to attract De Bruyne from the Premier League. De Bruyne has been silent on his future at the moment, but there could also be a move to sister club NYCFC in Major League Soccer in the works.

“At my age, you have to be open to everything. You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that,” De Bruyne stated to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws at the time.

Kevin De Bruyne is renowned for his exceptional passing, vision, and playmaking abilities. A key player for Manchester City, he has consistently been instrumental in their success, helping the team secure multiple titles.

For example, its broadcasting deals with global networks ensure that matches are broadcast in over 200 countries, generating billions of dollars annually. This massive influx of revenue allows Premier League clubs to offer some of the highest salaries and transfer fees in the sport, attracting top talent from around the globe.

This combination of revenue, competition, and commercial strength makes the Premier League the most attractive and highest-paying league in world football. Here are the top five earners of the Premier League this season.

Kevin De Bruyne – $31 Million

The highest-paid player in the Premier League is Belgian international Kevin De Bruyne. Now in his 10th season with Manchester City, the 33-year-old remains a valued member of Pep Guardiola’s squad and one of the best midfielders in the world.

Rodrigo Hernández – $26 Million

Rodrigo Hernández is in his sixth season at Manchester City and has signed a new contract that makes him one of the highest-paid defensive midfielders in the world. Rodrigo Hernández earns $26 million annually.

Erling Haaland – $25.2 Million

One of the most prolific goalscorers in the world, Erling Haaland is also a Manchester City player and earns close to $26 million. Haaland has earned his pay all over Europe, especially at Manchester City.

Jadon Sancho – $23.5 Million

Jadon Sancho is back with Manchester United, although for how long remains to be seen. Sancho is one of the league’s top earners but has fallen out of favor with Erik ten Hag.

Mohamed Salah – $23.4 Million

Mohamed Salah is still one of the Premier League’s best earners, well deserved with his 212 goals in 350 games for Liverpool. The Egyptian legend earns approximately $23.4 million.

Manchester City has a large and high-quality squad, which allows them to rotate their players without affecting the team’s performance. Guardiola’s decision not to include De Bruyne in the starting eleven can have several explanations.

The Belgian midfielder has been linked with other teams, but his commitment to the city club seems to be total. His presence in the team is fundamental for Manchester City’s aspirations to continue dominating English and European football.

Kevin De Bruyne will not be in the starting team of the 2024 Community Shield

Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne suffered a tear in his thigh that led him to undergo surgery and be out indefinitely. Despite his absence from the starting eleven, De Bruyne remains a key player for Manchester City. His vision of the game, his ability to assist his teammates, and his ability to score goals make him one of the best midfielders in the world.

However, De Bruyne was included in the list of substitutes for this match and could be related to a specific strategy of Guardiola. The Catalan coach is known for his ability to surprise his opponents with tactical changes and unexpected line-ups. He may have decided to reserve De Bruyne for the second half of the match or a later encounter.

It’s none other than midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who has opted to leave the Citizens under Pep Guardiola’s management to join Al-Ittihad. According to news portal Daily Mail, De Bruyne will sign a blockbuster contract with the Saudi Arabian club, a deal that was simply too lucrative to turn down. With this move, Cristiano Ronaldo now has another top-tier rival in the race for league honors.

At 33 years old, the Belgian star decides to move to a less prominent football league. In recent years, the Saudi Arabian league has been making significant investments in high-profile players to increase its global appeal and draw a larger audience.

After a stellar run with City, where he clinched multiple titles and played alongside stars like Erling Haaland, Rodri, and Julian Alvarez, De Bruyne is now set to make his mark in Saudi Arabia. The Belgian midfielder joins a high-profile squad at Al-Ittihad, featuring two other big names in world football—Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante. This move signifies a major shift in the football landscape, as Al-Ittihad aims to build a powerhouse team in the Saudi Pro League.

Kevin De Bruyne’s Manchester City stats: A legacy of excellence

In his 9-year stint with Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne established himself as one of the club’s all-time greats. Over the course of 383 appearances, the Belgian midfielder scored 102 goals and delivered 170 assists, showcasing his exceptional playmaking and scoring abilities.

Kevin De Bruyne’s Trophy Haul at Manchester City

• Premier League: 5 (2017-18, 2018-19, 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23)
• FA Cup: 2 (2018-19, 2022-23)
• Carabao Cup: 3 (2017-18, 2018-19, 2019-20)
• Community Shield: 2 (2018, 2019)
• UEFA Champions League: 1 (2022-23)

Saudi Arabia, Cristiano Ronaldo, and the rise of a star league

The Saudi Pro League continues to attract top global talent with Kevin De Bruyne’s recent move to Al-Ittihad, adding another superstar to the growing roster of football icons in the region. De Bruyne joins a prestigious lineup that includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kanté, Marcelo Brozovic and Sadio Mane.

In addition to these high-profile players, the league has also welcomed renowned managers like Steven Gerrard and Laurent Blanc, further enhancing its competitive edge. As the Saudi Pro League strengthens its global appeal, it promises to keep drawing big names, setting the stage for an exciting future in Middle Eastern football.

Kevin De Bruyne’s arrival remains uncertain

Despite previous indications that Kevin De Bruyne’s transfer to Al-Ittihad was a done deal, journalist Fabrizio Romano has cast doubt on the move. Through his X (formerly known as Twitter) account, Romano reported that the Belgian midfielder has yet to finalize an agreement with the club. Meanwhile, it appears that Moussa Diaby is on the verge of signing with Al-Ittihad.