Kevin De Bruyne’s future at Manchester City is currently uncertain. The 32-year-old Belgian midfielder, who was linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia in the recent transfer window, has less than a year remaining on his contract.
After City’s 3-1 win over West Ham last Saturday, De Bruyne addressed the speculation, saying he hasn’t been swayed by rumors of a possible departure.
He also expressed confidence that discussions over a new contract would take place soon.
While De Bruyne seems inclined to stay at City, manager Pep Guardiola must still plan for the possibility of losing the influential midfielder.
The club may look to bring in a new attacking midfielder to replace De Bruyne, or they could promote from within, with 21-year-old James McAtee emerging as a potential successor.
McAtee, who was on loan at Sheffield United for the past two seasons, attracted transfer interest over the summer.
However, Guardiola decided to keep him, impressed by McAtee’s performances during City’s pre-season tour in the United States.
Guardiola expressed a desire to involve McAtee in the first team this season, offering him chances to prove himself.
McAtee played 80 minutes in the Community Shield, contributing to City’s penalty shootout win over Manchester United.
Since then, McAtee has made just one Premier League appearance, coming off the bench in City’s victory over Ipswich last month.
However, he gained valuable playing time with England’s Under-21 squad during the international break.
McAtee started in a 0-0 draw against Northern Ireland on Friday and was in the starting lineup for a friendly against Austria on Monday.
Playing in De Bruyne’s usual No.10 role, McAtee delivered a standout performance, contributing to England’s attacking play and earning a penalty that led to the first goal.
He later assisted and scored a goal himself before being substituted in the 72nd minute.
Though the competition isn’t at the same level as City’s Premier League, Champions League, or domestic cup opponents, McAtee demonstrated his ability to perform in an advanced midfield role.
With his potential and growing experience, Guardiola might consider giving McAtee more opportunities to prove himself as a long-term replacement for De Bruyne.
