Belgian star Kevin De Bruyne, captain of Manchester City, revealed the possibility of his absence from the 2025 Club World Cup, scheduled to take place from June 15 to July 13, due to a congested match schedule and his desire to maintain his fitness and health.

De Bruyne said: "It doesn't make sense, but this is what happens when new tournaments are added while negotiating new contracts. I have to take care of myself because if I get injured during the Club World Cup, no one will care about me then, so there is a high chance I won't participate in the tournament."

He added: "I'm not the one who sets the rules, and I don't have the ability to change anything. I will make my decision when I feel ready for it. I just want to finish these two matches, and then I will think about it seriously."

He continued: "It's not easy; I have a wife and three children, and I also have to consider my family. So the decision needs to be made with caution and thought."

It is worth mentioning that De Bruyne previously announced his departure from Manchester City at the end of the current season after his contract expires, in a difficult season for the sky blues, who ended up empty-handed after losing the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace 1-0, in one of Pep Guardiola's worst seasons with the club.