Kevin De Bruyne has agreed personal terms with Al-Ittihad. Manchester City are willing to sell with his contract ending in 2025.

Kevin De Bruyne’s Shock Move to Al-Ittihad: A New Chapter Begins

The football world was left stunned by the breaking news: Kevin De Bruyne, one of the most brilliant playmakers of his generation, had agreed personal terms with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. The news spread like wildfire, sparking debates and discussions among fans, pundits, and players alike. The Belgian maestro’s potential departure from Manchester City signaled the end of an era for the Premier League giants and the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the Middle East.

The Negotiations

For months, speculation had swirled around De Bruyne’s future. With his contract at Manchester City set to expire in 2025, the club faced a pivotal decision. Despite his continued excellence on the field, City’s management knew that cashing in on the 33-year-old now might be the best strategic move for their long-term plans.

Al-Ittihad, backed by substantial financial resources and keen on elevating their profile on the global stage, had been monitoring De Bruyne’s situation closely. The Saudi Pro League club saw in him not only a world-class player but also a marquee signing that would attract fans and sponsorships. Negotiations between De Bruyne’s representatives and Al-Ittihad began discreetly, with the player’s interests and future ambitions at the forefront.

The discussions progressed smoothly, with both sides keen to make the move happen. For De Bruyne, the allure of a new challenge and a lucrative contract in Saudi Arabia was compelling. He had achieved almost everything there was to achieve in European football—multiple Premier League titles, domestic cups, and individual accolades. The idea of being a part of Al-Ittihad’s ambitious project intrigued him.

### The Decision

As the negotiations reached their final stages, Manchester City’s management was informed of De Bruyne’s desire to explore this new opportunity. Although reluctant to part ways with their star midfielder, City recognized the player’s contributions and respected his wishes. The club’s hierarchy, led by Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak and manager Pep Guardiola, understood the significance of allowing De Bruyne to leave on good terms.

City’s willingness to sell was also influenced by their long-term vision. With emerging talents and potential new signings on the horizon, the club felt confident in their ability to adapt and maintain their competitive edge. The decision to let De Bruyne go was not taken lightly, but it was seen as a pragmatic step towards evolving their squad.

### The Announcement

The official announcement came on a sunny afternoon at the Etihad Stadium, where a press conference was held to address the transfer. Kevin De Bruyne, dressed in a smart suit, sat alongside Guardiola and Al Mubarak. The room was filled with journalists, cameras flashing, capturing every moment of the momentous occasion.

“Today is a bittersweet day for Manchester City,” began Al Mubarak. “Kevin De Bruyne has been an integral part of our success over the years. His vision, creativity, and leadership on and off the pitch have been exemplary. We understand his desire for a new challenge and respect his decision to join Al-Ittihad. We wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter of his career.”

De Bruyne, visibly emotional, took a deep breath before addressing the room. “Leaving Manchester City is not a decision I made lightly,” he said. “This club has been my home for many years, and I’ve shared some of the best moments of my career here. But I believe the time has come for a new challenge. Al-Ittihad has shown great interest in me, and I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to their ambitious project. I will always cherish my time at City and remain grateful to the fans, my teammates, and the staff.”

### The Reaction

The reaction from the footballing world was immediate and varied. Fans of Manchester City expressed their gratitude for De Bruyne’s contributions, flooding social media with messages of appreciation and nostalgia. Tributes poured in from former teammates, rivals, and managers, all acknowledging the Belgian’s impact on the game.

Pundits debated the implications of De Bruyne’s move on both Manchester City and Al-Ittihad. Many saw it as a testament to the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League, which was increasingly attracting top talent from Europe. Others speculated on how City would cope without their midfield maestro and who might step up to fill the void.

In Saudi Arabia, the excitement was palpable. Al-Ittihad fans eagerly anticipated De Bruyne’s arrival, envisioning the magic he would bring to their team. The club’s social media channels buzzed with activity, as they welcomed their new star with open arms.

### The Transition

De Bruyne’s transition to life in Saudi Arabia was closely followed by the media. He arrived in Jeddah to a hero’s welcome, with fans lining the streets to catch a glimpse of their new idol. Al-Ittihad organized a grand unveiling at their stadium, where thousands of supporters gathered to celebrate the historic signing.

On the pitch, De Bruyne quickly adapted to his new environment. His presence elevated the team’s performance, and he seamlessly integrated into Al-Ittihad’s style of play. The Belgian’s vision, passing accuracy, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game were evident from the start, and he soon became a fan favorite.

Off the pitch, De Bruyne embraced the cultural experience, exploring the rich history and traditions of Saudi Arabia. His family joined him, and they settled into their new life, appreciating the warmth and hospitality of the local community.

### The Legacy

As the season progressed, De Bruyne’s impact on Al-Ittihad and the Saudi Pro League became undeniable. His performances drew attention from around the world, showcasing the league’s growing competitiveness and appeal. Al-Ittihad, with De Bruyne at the helm, enjoyed a successful campaign, competing fiercely for domestic and continental honors.

Back in Manchester, City continued their pursuit of excellence, integrating new talents and adapting their tactics. While De Bruyne’s absence was felt, the club remained a dominant force in the Premier League, driven by their unwavering ambition and strategic vision.

Kevin De Bruyne’s move to Al-Ittihad marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career. It symbolized the ever-evolving landscape of football, where players sought new challenges and opportunities beyond traditional powerhouses. For De Bruyne, it was a chance to leave a lasting legacy in a new territory, inspiring future generations and contributing to the global growth of the beautiful game.

As he looked back on his journey, De Bruyne could reflect with pride on his achievements, knowing that he had made an indelible mark on both Manchester City and Al-Ittihad. His story served as a reminder that football transcends borders, and the pursuit of greatness knows no limits.