Haaland pays tribute to departing De Bruyne

Erling Haaland has paid an emotional tribute to Kevin De Bruyne as the Belgian midfielder prepares to leave Manchester City this summer.

Speaking ahead of the club’s final matches of the season, Haaland reflected on their on-field connection and deep friendship, describing De Bruyne as “maybe the best player ever to play for Manchester City.”

The Norwegian striker added, “Hopefully in the last games we’re going to have a really good time.”

The two stars formed an instant understanding upon Haaland’s arrival in 2022, with the midfielder providing numerous assists for the prolific forward.

“We clicked straight away from the first second,” he said, acknowledging how crucial De Bruyne’s creativity has been to his success. “You really can’t replace a player like him – he’s got something so special the way he puts the ball in the box.”

Haaland’s praise underscores the unique bond the two have shared both on and off the pitch. “You can see many of my goals are assisted by him, and some have been ridiculous,” he noted.

De Bruyne’s departure in the summer of 2025 comes as part of City’s planned midfield rebuild, with the club reportedly lining up a £190 million overhaul. Targets include German talent Florian Wirtz as the Sky Blues prepare for life after one of their greatest ever players.