Pep Guardiola lauds 'incredible' Kevin De Bruyne after Crystal Palace drubbing

As City clawed their way back from two goals down to a 5-2 win over Crystal Palace, the 33-year-old maestro put on a performance that was part artistry, part leadership, and all heart. A stunning free-kick and a classic assist to Mateo Kovacic were just the visible contributions-beneath it all was the quiet orchestration of a midfield genius at work.

For manager Pep Guardiola, it was another moment to savor from a player he knows he'll never quite replace.

"No one can do what Kevin has done," Guardiola said post-match, his admiration clear. "He's incredible. With the ball, he's so clever. The goals, the assists - he gave us everything again today. I'm just grateful."

De Bruyne confirmed last week that his time at City will end with the season, closing a monumental chapter in both his career and the club's history. But where he goes next remains unwritten. With links to MLS and the Saudi Pro League swirling, the Belgian playmaker admitted there's a fog of uncertainty ahead-not just for him, but for his family too.

"My kids were born in Manchester. This city is their whole world," he said, visibly moved. "So yes, they're a bit scared about what's next. We don't have answers yet. But I want to keep playing good football like I did today. If I'm playing and my family's happy, I'll be okay."

In ten years at City, De Bruyne has etched his name deep into club folklore - 71 goals, 121 assists, and countless moments of brilliance that defined an era. And while Saturday saw a glimmer of the next generation-James McAtee notched a goal and hinted at his own promise - Guardiola was quick to pull back any rush to compare.

"Let Macca be Macca," he said. "Kevin is one of one."

De Bruyne himself isn't done. After battling through a painful hernia for much of the year, he says he's now pain-free, training hard, and full of drive.

"I feel like myself again," he told TNT Sports. "It was a tough year, but I want to keep going. We'll see where life takes me."

As City stay in the hunt in both the league and FA Cup, their talisman continues to write his final pages in sky blue. And while the destination remains unknown, one thing is clear: De Bruyne isn't fading out - he's going out swinging.

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