Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has admitted he knew Kevin De Bruyne was going to leave Manchester City, after getting that vibe from the midfielder during the last international break.
DH have comments from the Belgian goalkeeper today speaking at Real Madrid’s press conference ahead of their meeting with Arsenal in the Champions League.
Despite the enormity of that quarter-final clash, there was still interest in the press room about De Bruyne’s recent announcement.
The Belgian midfielder announced his decision to leave Manchester City at the end of the season last week, brining an end to a glorious ten-year spell at the Etihad in which he’s won six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five league cups, two Community Shields and the Champions League. He could add a third FA Cup to that tally before the season ends too.
There’s been non stop debate about him since, with many lauding De Bruyne as potentially the best ever foreign player in the Premier League and undoubtedly one of the best midfielders to have played in England.
His decision to leave Manchester City has not quite caused the shockwaves it might once have done, with his departure anticipated for months as Pep Guardiola’s side plan a rebuild in the summer.
Courtois certainly wasn’t shocked, admitting he got a sense from his long-time international teammate that he was heading in that direction the last time they met.
“For sure he’s one of the best ever players to play in the Belgian national team and with a Belgian nationality,” he said.
“Also, in the Premier League I think, obviously winning six Premier Leagues. I think what he gave to Manchester City, I guess he’s one of the best players to have played in the Premier League.
“Last time in the national team I kind of felt that maybe he was going to move on, so I was not entirely surprised to hear him say this last week.”
