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Graeme Sounes has said that he sees nothing wrong with Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne potentially moving to Saudi Arabia, referencing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi's moves out of Europe. The Belgian is approaching 33 and has had a long and storied career in the Premier League.
Souness, who made over 300 appearances for Liverpool before leaving in the mid 80’s, told the Up front podcast:
“In the case of Kevin De Bruyne, in the past two years he's missed something like 39 games, and it's closer to 50 over three seasons, That'll only get worse as well with age and with the physicality of the Premier League.
"There was a black and white moment towards the end of my career where I thought, 'I'm (physically) done at this level.' I was 34 playing for Glasgow Rangers, there was a player called Ian Ferguson who just brushed me aside and took the ball, and I thought, 'did that just happen?'"
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The Liverpool icon concluded, referencing the decision of the legendary duo of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi leaving Europe:
"I don't hold anything against the likes of Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo for what they're doing they've earned their stripes.
"You look at Messi going to Miami, which is a Latin city and somewhere where his kids and family can grow up and be happy. If De Bruyne were to do the same with Saudi, I wouldn't have any complaints.”
It remains to be seen if a move materialises for the Manchester City legend this summer. Whatever happens, the Belgian is a Premier League great following his exploits in the competition.
Could Kevin De Bruyne join Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in leaving Europe this summer?
The short answer is yes. Kevin De Bruyne has absolutely nothing left to prove in Europe any more. Like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, he could embark on another chapter in his career without feeling like he has missed out on anything.
The Belgian has been part of the most dominant Premier League team in history and has provided over a hundred assists. If he leaves his oil-rich City team, he will leave in the knowledge that they have the finances and personnel to replace him.
While he has positively responded to suggestions of a move to Saudi Arabia where Cristiano Ronaldo plays, he could also move to MLS. Lionel Messi has shown that America can provide a fertile ground for a player to develop their brand and get decent competition as well.
Whatever happens, Kevin De Bruyne could make his choice with a clear mind, knowing that he has completed European football and can take on another chapter in his career.
