Emotions ran high at the Etihad Stadium as Manchester City bid a poignant farewell to captain Kevin De Bruyne, who concluded a remarkable 10-year career with the club.
Manager Pep Guardiola openly wept during the send-off, even as City secured a crucial 3-1 victory over Bournemouth.
The night belonged to De Bruyne, whose final Etihad appearance in a sky-blue shirt was met with an outpouring of affection.
A touching post-game video tribute featured former teammates like Sergio Aguero and Vincent Kompany, highlighting his immense impact.
“Ten years is a lot of games, a lot of titles, a lot of moments. Today summarised a little bit how much love was there,” Guardiola said.
De Bruyne, who announced his departure last month, leaves with 16 trophies. He also matched a Premier League record for chances created (846), tying Cesc Fabregas.
Guardiola described him as “irreplaceable,” citing not just goals or assists but “the connection, the way you play.”
In a fitting tribute, the club announced a statue of De Bruyne will be erected outside the Etihad.
“It means I will always be part of this club,” De Bruyne told the fans. “I will be back but we love you and see you soon.”
