Manchester City is enduring a challenging season, and Belgian maestro Kevin De Bruyne is far from his best form. Once a pivotal figure in Pep Guardiola's plans, De Bruyne's influence has waned significantly this season. With only five starts and three full matches under his belt, injuries and a perceived lack of trust from Guardiola are raising eyebrows about his future at the club.

A Strained Dynamic?

Speculation is rife in England that the bond between Guardiola and De Bruyne has fractured. Gary Neville, former Liverpool player, has weighed in:

"Something is happening, but Pep Guardiola has complete control of the club. He recently extended his contract and might simply be waiting for the January and summer transfer windows. The situation with De Bruyne feels unusual, strange, even bizarre."

Jamie Carragher, another Premier League legend, has echoed these concerns, pointing out De Bruyne’s sudden lack of prominence:

"For me, Kevin has been the best player over the last five seasons. Yet now, he’s not starting any matches. I’m not trying to stir trouble for Manchester City, but something isn’t right between them. His contract is up this summer, and while I know injuries have played a role, it’s odd that he’s left out even when fit."

Saudi Arabia Calling?

Micah Richards, a former Manchester City defender, has suggested a potential transfer to Saudi Arabia might be complicating the situation:

"De Bruyne got a few minutes on the pitch, but after the international break, he wasn’t in the starting lineup and hasn’t been since. The rumors about a move to Saudi Arabia at the end of the season might indicate a deeper rift between him and Guardiola."

What’s Next for De Bruyne?

De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City is set to expire at the end of the season. While his brilliance has been pivotal in the club’s domestic and European success, his recent absence from the lineup raises critical questions about his relationship with Guardiola and his long-term future.

Is this merely a temporary dip caused by injuries and rotation? Or has a deeper issue surfaced, hinting at a potential farewell to the Etihad? The coming months may reveal whether Kevin De Bruyne will continue to script his legacy at City or seek new challenges elsewhere.