As the Premier League season comes roaring towards its conclusion, Kevin De Bruyne’s return for Man City could be seen as a vital component for their success.
The Belgian has only recently returned to the starting line-up after a serious injury, but the difference he makes to the flow of Pep Guardiola’s side is immediately obvious.
He has an ease about his play that appears to see him glide across the turf, and rarely does he waste a pass even when running at full pace.
Though he’s clearly integral to what the Catalan wants to achieve, no one is indispensable, least of all a player that is already 32 years of age and just over a year away from the end of his current contract.
Guardiola has shown on many occasions in the past that he can be utterly ruthless when it comes to ditching players, though De Bruyne is certainly a special case.
His natural game has never been about speed in transitions, but more about the in-game intelligence to always pick the right option.
To that end it could be said that the Belgian will remain important to his manager for a good while yet.
Kevin De Bruyne’s surprise
However, as The Athletic (subscription required) report, the Saudi Pro League are circling again, and sporting director, Michael Emenalo, has a history of his own with De Bruyne, given that he helped to bring him to Chelsea many years ago.
Surprisingly, however, according to the outlet, the player might well choose a move to MLS if City decide to put him out to pasture.