Kevin De Bruyne has said to HLN that the potential two-year exodus from the Champions League for Manchester City could cause him to leave the club.
Kevin De Bruyne Could Leave Manchester City
Ban Currently Being Appealed
Manchester City’s ban from the Champions League was announced earlier this season. It followed a number of breaches to UEFA’s financial fair play rules.
However, the club were quick to appeal that ban, and have lodged a complaint to the Court of Arbitration for sport. According to The Guardian, there is no timescale to decide whether to uphold the ban, although City were hoping it would be concluded by this summer. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic, that would now be unlikely.
As a result, Pep Guardiola’s side are forced with the prospect of playing the next two seasons without Champions League football.
No Champions League Could Force the Belgian to Depart
If City were unsuccessful in overturning their ban, then it could lead to the departure of Kevin De Bruyne.
Speaking to Belgian news outlet HLN, he said: “The club has told us that they are going to appeal and that they are 100% sure that they are right. That’s why i’m waiting to see what will happen.
“Once the statement is made, I will review everything. Two years would be long, but in the case of one year I might see.”
However, the 28-year-old confirmed that if the ban was overturned, he would remain in Manchester.
“I’m very happy with City,” he said. “I play for one of the best teams in the world, play in England – for my competitive view the best competition – and I like that. It remains a challenge to be the best and I need that too.”
If he were to leave, there is no doubt that he would leave a gap in Pep Guardiola’s midfield. The Belgian has registered nine goals and 19 assists in all competitions this season.
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