According to renowned TBR Football journalist Graeme Bailey, Manchester City are preparing for life after Kevin De Bruyne, with the Belgian playmaker expected to leave the Etihad Stadium at the end of the season.
In response, the Premier League champions have identified Bayer Leverkusen’s rising star Florian Wirtz as a potential successor — someone they hope can seamlessly take over the creative reins in midfield for years to come.
A New Era Begins: The De Bruyne Chapter Nearing Its Final Page
Since joining City in 2015, Kevin De Bruyne has evolved into one of the most dominant midfielders in Premier League history.
His precise passing, unmatched vision, lethal through-balls, and long-range shooting made him the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s system.De Bruyne was a vital part of City’s historic treble-winning campaign and remains a club legend.
However, at 32, injuries have begun to take their toll, and sources suggest that De Bruyne has made the decision to leave this summer, potentially joining a Saudi Pro League or MLS side to conclude his illustrious career.
With this in mind, City’s hierarchy are actively seeking a worthy successor to carry the torch in midfield.
Wirtz Emerges as City’s Midfield Heir Apparent
In light of De Bruyne’s likely departure, 20-year-old German midfielder Florian Wirtz has emerged as City’s top target.
The Bayer Leverkusen prodigy has been sensational this season under the guidance of Xabi Alonso and is widely regarded as one of the brightest talents in European football.
A creative force in Leverkusen’s title charge, Wirtz has been instrumental in both scoring and creating goals. His close control, quick feet, and composure in tight spaces make him a nightmare for defenders, while his intelligence and timing enable him to dictate play from midfield.
What sets Wirtz apart is his combination of playmaking finesse and directness — much like De Bruyne. He thrives on operating in pockets between the lines, orchestrating attacks, and delivering defense-splitting passes. His shooting from distance and dead-ball ability add another layer to his offensive arsenal.
City Ready to Move, But Bayern Loom as Major Threat
City’s interest in Wirtz is strong, but they won’t be alone in the race. Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich are also keen on signing the German international.
As domestic rivals, Bayern are well-acquainted with Wirtz’s development and playing style, and they possess a track record of acquiring the best talent from within the league.
With reports linking Xabi Alonso to a future managerial role at Bayern, there’s added speculation that Wirtz could follow his current coach to the Allianz Arena — a potential “package deal” that gives Bayern a tactical and emotional edge.
A Career-Defining Decision Awaits Wirtz
Whether Wirtz chooses Manchester City or Bayern Munich, the path he takes will define the next phase of his career:
Joining Manchester City would mean entering the most competitive league in the world, with the chance to work directly under Pep Guardiola and evolve within a sophisticated, possession-dominant system. However, it would also bring greater competition for minutes and a steeper physical challenge.
Staying in the Bundesliga with Bayern offers a more familiar environment with guaranteed playing time and a central role, allowing Wirtz to continue growing steadily while staying close to the German national team setup.
This choice could shape the next 5–10 years of Wirtz’s career. Manchester City are eager to secure his signature, knowing how vital a dynamic, multi-functional midfielder is to maintaining their dominance in the post-De Bruyne era.
Who Will Inherit De Bruyne’s Crown?
De Bruyne’s likely departure marks the end of a golden era at Manchester City and the beginning of a strategic transition. Florian Wirtz is widely viewed as the most suitable heir to the Belgian maestro — a midfielder capable of blending flair, intelligence, and execution at the highest level.
As City prepare for the next chapter, the question remains: will Wirtz step out of his comfort zone to embrace the challenge of the Premier League? Or will he continue to build his legacy in Germany?
One thing is certain — wherever he lands, Florian Wirtz is destined to become one of football’s defining figures in the coming decade. And for Manchester City, securing him would be a statement of both ambition and continuity in the post-De Bruyne era.
