Kevin De Bruyne to stay?! Man City star to accept pay cut and reduced role under Pep Guardiola as he prepares to snub lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia and MLS

Kevin De Bruyne is all set to sign a new contract at Manchester City as he aims to play at the 2026 World Cup for Belgium.

• De Bruyne likely to stay back at City
• Wants to play 2026 World Cup
• Ready to accept significant pay cut

WHAT HAPPENED?

De Bruyne is in the final year of his contract and is yet to sign a new City deal, amid big-money transfer links to Saudi Pro League and MLS clubs. The Mirror, however, claims that the experienced midfielder is all set to extend his stay at Etihad Stadium as he aims to play at the 2026 World Cup in North America for Belgium.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The report adds that the reigning Premier League champions are ready to offer a new 12-month deal to De Bruyne but the midfielder will see a significant pay cut. The Belgium international currently earns £375,000-a-week but in the new deal, he is expected to pocket £150,000-a-week. City boss Pep Guardiola is also willing to retain the services of the 34-year-old as he wants at least one experienced player in the team while he rebuilds the squad ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.

WHAT PEP GUARDIOLA SAID

While speaking to reporters on Friday, Guardiola had said: "There are players here that their age is over 30, but they are part of the future of this club. Kevin and the club will decide on his future. Everyone who has a contract for next season, I expect him to be here. They are going to help us. Next season will be a lot of games. We cannot do it just with our new ones. They will be able to help and be part of our season."

WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER CITY?

After a narrow 2-1 win over Plymouth Argyle in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Saturday, City will next face Nottingham Forest in a difficult Premier League fixture on March 8.