Kevin De Bruyne Uncertain About Club World Cup Participation with Manchester City

Kevin De Bruyne has expressed uncertainty regarding his participation in Manchester City's upcoming FIFA Club World Cup campaign.

The Belgian midfielder stated, “I haven't really spoken to the club about it, so I don't know,” when questioned about the tournament. He added, “If they want to have a conversation, we can. But I'm not sure about this,” during an interview with TNT.

De Bruyne, 33, has announced his departure from Manchester City at the end of the current season, concluding a decade-long tenure with the club. His contract expires on June 30, 2025, which coincides with the latter stages of the Club World Cup, raising questions about his involvement in the tournament. Despite being named in City's 23-man squad for the competition, De Bruyne was left off the team sheet for the semifinal match against Urawa Red Diamonds in December 2023 due to ongoing recovery from a hamstring injury.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has indicated that De Bruyne's participation in the tournament is contingent upon his fitness and contractual status. Guardiola remarked, “He has to decide. It’s a new competition. I hope he can continue to play football in another place, but it depends on risk and contracts for the future,” highlighting the complexities surrounding player availability amid contract expirations.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation regarding De Bruyne's role in City's Club World Cup squad. The situation remains fluid, with further discussions between the player and the club anticipated in the coming weeks.