Kevin De Bruyne Ready to Accept Major Salary Cut and Extend Manchester City Contract to Fulfil 2026 World Cup Ambition

Kevin De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City is currently shaped by his determination to extend his illustrious career with the Belgium national team, with a particular focus on participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As the summer of 2025 approaches and his contract nears its expiration, reports indicate that De Bruyne is prepared to accept a significant salary reduction in order to secure a contract extension with Manchester City. This move would allow him to fulfill his ambition of competing on the world stage in 2026.

De Bruyne, who turns 34 in June 2025, has experienced a turbulent season due to ongoing injury issues, but the midfielder remains resolute in his desire to prove his fitness before making any decisions regarding his future with the club. Despite his injury struggles, De Bruyne’s role as a key figure in Manchester City’s success under Pep Guardiola cannot be understated. Even though his recent form and fitness concerns have raised questions, there is still a firm belief that De Bruyne has much to contribute to the team.

Currently, De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City runs until the summer of 2025, and he is among the club’s top earners, reportedly making £375,000-per-week before bonuses. However, in light of his injury problems and a dip in form over the past seasons, De Bruyne’s value to the team remains undeniable. His vision, creativity, and ability to control the tempo of matches have made him a central figure in Guardiola’s tactical setup.

Though De Bruyne is now 34 years old and may not be at his physical peak, his experience and leadership remain invaluable assets to Guardiola’s squad. The Manchester City manager has repeatedly emphasized that De Bruyne’s future will depend on negotiations between the player and the club. There is widespread acknowledgment that City is undergoing a period of transition, with several key players likely to leave in the summer. These departures could include notable figures such as Matheus Nunes, Mateo Kovacic, John Stones, Ederson, and Jack Grealish, all of whom may be part of a squad refreshment effort.

Recent reports suggest that De Bruyne is willing to make a drastic financial sacrifice in order to continue his journey at Manchester City for another season. Sources reveal that the Belgian playmaker is prepared to accept a pay cut, reducing his weekly salary from £375,000 to somewhere closer to £150,000. This substantial pay reduction is a direct reflection of De Bruyne’s commitment to his World Cup aspirations, which remain central to his career goals.

De Bruyne’s decision to accept a lower salary is motivated by his ambition to extend his international career and compete in one final World Cup in 2026. The tournament, to be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, presents the last opportunity for De Bruyne to represent Belgium on the global stage. He is well aware of the difficulties involved in maintaining top-level performance as his career winds down, but his commitment to Belgium and his belief in his ability to continue playing at a high level have led him to pursue this extraordinary course of action.

Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola’s leadership, is currently in the midst of a squad overhaul. With key players such as Ilkay Gundogan and others potentially leaving, City is in the process of reshaping its roster. De Bruyne’s leadership and experience could prove essential as the club transitions to a new generation of talent. His mentorship could be crucial for younger or newer players who are set to join the squad.

Erling Haaland, one of Manchester City’s marquee signings, has already committed his future to the club with a lucrative 10-year contract. This move further highlights City’s long-term planning and desire to build a sustainable team. Retaining De Bruyne for another year would ensure that the club’s midfield remains competitive while also providing stability during this transformative period.

Though De Bruyne has expressed a desire to stay with Manchester City, his future has been the subject of rumors linking him with moves abroad. The Saudi Pro League has long shown interest in the Belgian star, and offers from Major League Soccer (MLS) have also surfaced. However, the allure of the 2026 World Cup and his desire to remain competitive for one last tournament appear to weigh heavily on his decision-making process.

The possibility of a move to the United States is also appealing for De Bruyne, partly due to his family’s preference for relocating to the U.S. However, the lure of representing Belgium one final time at the highest level is likely to be the primary factor in his decision to either stay with Manchester City or explore new opportunities elsewhere.

Pep Guardiola has been one of De Bruyne’s strongest advocates throughout his time at Manchester City. Despite the midfielder’s injury troubles, Guardiola has consistently praised De Bruyne’s contributions to the team, underscoring his importance both on and off the field. The Manchester City manager recognizes that while De Bruyne’s physicality may not be what it once was, his intelligence, vision, and leadership are irreplaceable.

Managing De Bruyne’s fitness has become a key part of Guardiola’s strategy in recent seasons. The City boss has carefully managed the midfielder’s playing time to ensure that he remains in peak condition while still providing the necessary leadership and creativity in the center of the park. Guardiola is fully aware that De Bruyne’s experience and understanding of the game are indispensable as City embarks on a rebuilding phase.

As Manchester City plans for the future, the integration of new players into the squad will be essential. In this context, De Bruyne’s presence could be invaluable in guiding the club’s next generation of stars. His leadership, both in the dressing room and on the pitch, could help ease the transition as City continues to build for the future.

While much speculation surrounds De Bruyne’s future, the situation remains fluid. The Belgian is determined to prove his fitness and regain his best form before making a final decision. If he continues to perform at a high level, it is likely that both De Bruyne and Manchester City will come to an agreement on a new deal. This would allow the midfielder to continue his career at the Etihad Stadium for at least one more season, contributing to the club’s success while chasing his World Cup dream.

The decision regarding De Bruyne’s contract is far from settled, but the likelihood of him staying at Manchester City for another year seems strong. Both the player and the club appear open to a potential agreement, which could see De Bruyne playing a key role in the team for one final season as he pursues his international ambitions. The negotiations will likely center around a reduced salary, with the specifics of the deal to be determined in the coming months.

In summary, Kevin De Bruyne’s potential salary reduction and contract extension are driven by his burning desire to represent Belgium in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite his recent injury struggles, De Bruyne remains one of the most influential figures in world football. His leadership, experience, and vision could be crucial in helping Manchester City navigate a period of transition while also allowing him to make one final push for international glory. While the future remains uncertain, it is clear that De Bruyne’s legacy at Manchester City will be one of enduring excellence and dedication to both his club and his country.