'It wasn't nice' - Kevin De Bruyne opens up on heartache of Man City refusing to hand him new contract with legendary midfielder adamant he can still 'perform at this level'

Speaking to the press after City's 2-0 win at Everton on Saturday, the 33-year-old spoke out about the behind-the-scenes activities that led to him announcing his Etihad exit earlier in April. While De Bruyne's Premier League performances haven't quite been up to scratch this season, it's clear he still backs himself and is not happy about the club's decision to let him go once his current deal ends.

According to De Bruyne, "there was a little bit (of shock)" when he found out he wouldn't be offered a contract extension. He said: "I didn't have any offer from them through the whole year and the club made a decision. Obviously, I was a bit surprised but I have to accept it. Honestly, I still think I can perform at this level like I'm showing but I understand that clubs have to make decisions. It was half a week till I reported it out and it wasn't nice. My family weren't home. They were on holiday so it was a bit weird but it is what it is... I told (Txiki Begiristain, sporting director and Ferran Soriano, CEO) that I feel like I still have a lot to give. I know I'm not 25 anymore, but I still feel like I can do my job."

The Belgium international has struggled for consistent form over the past two seasons and has been increasingly plagued by injuries as he's grown older. But at 33, De Bruyne still has the quality and physical capacity to turn a top-level game on its head, as he showcased in a brilliant display against Crystal Palace earlier this month. When his City contract ends, there will no doubt be several clubs interested in bringing him in.

The Belgian star evidently isn't ready to retire just yet, but there aren't many clubs that would be able to match his extortionate Etihad wages. In the same interview, De Bruyne told the press, "I'm open for anything because I have to look at the whole picture. I'm looking at sporting reasons, family and everything together." Before that transfer rolls around, he'll be keen to play a central role in securing City Champions League qualification.