Manchester City gave Kevin De Bruyne an emotional send-off during a crucial 3-1 victory over Bournemouth on Tuesday, a win that significantly strengthens their bid for Champions League qualification next season.
Goals from Omar Marmoush, Bernardo Silva, and Nico Gonzalez propelled City into third place in the Premier League table, ahead of the final round of fixtures on Sunday. The result leaves them in a strong position, needing only a draw against Fulham on the final day to guarantee a top-five finish, owing to their vastly superior goal difference over sixth-placed Aston Villa.
The match wasn’t without drama. Midfielder Mateo Kovacic was sent off with 20 minutes remaining, briefly giving Bournemouth a chance to mount a comeback. However, their hopes were quickly dashed when Lewis Cook received a red card just minutes later for a reckless challenge on Gonzalez, restoring numerical parity.
There was further reason for City fans to celebrate late in the game as Ballon d’Or winner Rodri made his long-awaited return from a knee injury that had sidelined him since September. His appearance as a substitute marked a major boost for the team ahead of their final push for European qualification.
The win came just three days after City suffered a disheartening defeat in the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace. Despite the emotional toll, the team rallied on what turned into a poignant and celebratory night at the Etihad Stadium—De Bruyne’s final home match after a decade of distinguished service.
Earlier in the day, Manchester City paid tribute to the Belgian star by unveiling a mosaic and naming a road at the club’s training ground in his honor. As De Bruyne led the team out, he was greeted by a massive banner emblazoned with the words “King Kev,” a fitting tribute to a player who has won six Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy during his ten years at the club.
