Pep Guardiola, the head coach of Manchester City, described the departure of Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne from the team this summer as a sad day, emphasizing that the player has been a pivotal element in the club's successes over the past decade.

De Bruyne announced on his Instagram account that his tenth season with Manchester City will be his last, ending a remarkable career that began in the summer of 2015, during which he played 413 matches, scored and assisted 280 goals, and contributed to the team's 19 major titles.

Guardiola commented on De Bruyne's departure during a press conference on Friday, saying: "It is a sad day but I am also happy that I had the opportunity to work with such a great player."

He continued: "Kevin has given everything he has to the club, not only with his skills but also with his personality and impact on the team's successes."

He added: "It is hard to imagine the last decade without De Bruyne, just as it was with Vincent Kompany, Sergio Agüero, and David Silva."

He went on: "We still have six matches at home, and I hope he enjoys them with the fans because he deserves all the appreciation and respect."

With only six matches left at the Etihad Stadium for De Bruyne, he is expected to receive a special tribute from Manchester City fans in recognition of his significant role in the club's history.

It is worth noting that the 33-year-old Belgian player has not yet revealed his next destination, but his departure marks the end of a golden era at Manchester City under Guardiola's leadership.