“Kevin De Bruyne Eyes Stateside Move as MLS Newcomers San Diego FC Look to Add Belgian Star”
In a major twist for the upcoming summer transfer window, Manchester City’s midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne could be swapping Europe for the U.S., with talks reportedly underway for a high-profile move to San Diego FC. With his contract in England winding down, the Belgian might soon headline San Diego’s MLS debut in 2025.
At 33, De Bruyne was already linked with a possible switch to Saudi Arabia this summer, but an unfortunate groin injury against Inter Milan in the Champions League on September 12 has sidelined him since. Before the setback, he was central to City’s early Premier League form, starting each of their first four games. Currently, Guardiola’s side is second in the league, trailing Liverpool by just a point.
San Diego FC, a new force in the MLS, would mark only the third team De Bruyne has represented since arriving at City in 2015. He would join PSV’s Hirving Lozano and West Brom’s Paddy McNair, who are already lined up for San Diego’s first MLS season. Set to be coached by former USMNT assistant Mikey Vares, the club will become MLS’s 30th franchise, reflecting the league’s ambitious expansion plans.
Reports from GiveMeSport reveal San Diego’s top brass have held preliminary discussions with De Bruyne’s camp, working toward a potential summer 2025 deal. Sources suggest the player favors a move stateside over previous interest from Saudi clubs. This choice aligns with De Bruyne’s hints over the summer when he told Belgian outlet HLN, “At my age, you have to be open to everything. [You’re talking about incredible amounts of money in what may be the last stage of my career. Sometimes you have to think about that.]”
If he joins San Diego, De Bruyne would bring a glittering legacy, having helped City secure six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five League Cups, and the Champions League crown in 2023. Known for his playmaking prowess, the Belgian holds numerous accolades, including two Premier League Players’ Player of the Year awards. During the 2019-20 season, he set a record with 20 assists, surpassing Thierry Henry’s longstanding single-season record.
For now, City fans will miss his influence in this weekend’s clash against Southampton, as Guardiola remains uncertain on his return: “Of course, I prefer to have all the squad because of the amount of games but it is what it is… [hopefully he comes back soon but I don’t know yet.]”
