Perfect partner for Lionel Messi? Inter Miami told outgoing Man City legend Kevin De Bruyne will ‘pair up nicely’ with Argentine superstar in MLS

It has been confirmed that, after a decade of loyal service, Belgian playmaker De Bruyne will be leaving the Etihad Stadium as a free agent this summer when his contract expires. At 33 years of age, there is still plenty of football left in him.

Various landing spots have been mooted for the Premier League and Champions League title winner, from America to the Saudi Pro League. De Bruyne is yet to reveal what his future plans entail, but he would be welcomed with open arms in South Florida.

Ex-City and Argentina striker Aguero has told Stake.com of De Bruyne potentially heading to the United States: “I’ve read something in that vein but nothing official yet. I’d assume many people out there want him playing on their teams. We’ll see what happens soon enough. If it’s Inter Miami, I think [De Bruyne] will pair up very nicely with Leo.”

Aguero is also based in Miami and added when asked if former team-mate De Bruyne could become his neighbour: “Who knows? Would be nice to have him across the fence though.”

City’s all-time leading goalscorer went on to say of the legacy that De Bruyne will be leaving behind in Manchester: “When a player of that calibre leaves, it’s bound to be an emotional affair. Particularly a player of that historical importance.

“Seeing all the displays of affection that the fans showed him during the last few games, I’m glad Kevin is receiving this well-deserved recognition. For everything he did to consolidate the team into what it’s become, for what’s he’s done inside and outside the field. He’s a legend, no doubt.”

Messi and Inter Miami are faring admirably without De Bruyne at present, with an unbeaten start being enjoyed to their 2025 MLS campaign. The Herons are also through to the semi-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with the Vancouver Whitecaps next up in that competition.