Kevin De Bruyne explained why he won't travel to the US with the Manchester City squad for the Club World Cup.
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De Bruyne explained why he won't play in the Club World CupCriticised Club World Cup's timing Fulham clash will be De Bruyne's last match for Man CityFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The outgoing City star has made it clear that he has no intentions of playing in the inaugural edition of the Club World Cup as he does not want to risk getting injured ahead of joining a new club this summer. The Belgian's current contract expires on June 30 and it is unlikely that he would sign a short-term contract to play in the new competition in the US.
AdvertisementWHAT KEVIN DE BRUYNE SAID
The 33-year-old effectively hinted that the club's final Premier League game against Fulham on May 25 will be his last game for the former English champions. He told reporters: "It’s going to be weird. I’m going to try and enjoy it."
De Bruyne then criticised the Club World Cup for being held at the end of the football season in Europe as he added: "It doesn’t make any sense, but I think that happens when you push in new tournaments into the middle of this contract situation. In a way, I have to take care of myself because if I get injured in the Club World Cup, what am I going to do? Nobody’s going to take care of me at that point. So there’s a big chance probably I won’t play in it."
Getty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
The Cityzens' talisman is yet to make a final decision on his next move following his Etihad Stadium exit. He has been linked with a move to the MLS, while the player himself claimed that he could consider staying back in England and signing for another Premier League club, as his family is settled in the UK.
Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER CITY?
After the heartbreak at Wembley in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace, Pep Guardiola's side will now aim to finish their season on a high and among the top five teams to secure a Champions League spot. They next face Bournemouth on Tuesday in their penultimate match of the season.