Premier League cult hero Ben Foster has suggested that Manchester City are going to be impacted by a player they let go this summer.
Manchester City have had a fruitful transfer window, bringing in a host of top players such as Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri and James Trafford.
In addition, Man City want Gianluigi Donnarumma, with one report suggesting they’ve already agreed personal terms with the PSG star.
However, City have also moved a number of players on, and one in particular could “hurt” them, according to Foster.
Kevin De Bruyne applauds during Manchester City FC v AFC Bournemouth - Premier League
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Ben Foster bemoans Manchester City’s decision to let Kevin De Bruyne go
Ben Foster, speaking on the Fozcast podcast, commented on City’s loss of Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer.
Foster believes De Bruyne would have been an asset in the dressing room, and losing his influence and experience will hurt City a little bit.
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“Obviously you’re losing some experience with Kevin De Bruyne going,” said Foster.
“And I think that having that player around the building raises standards for everybody.
“I think it keeps everybody on their toes because it’s like, the great Kevin De Bruyne, you know for a fact he’s a super professional. You know he does it properly.
“So I think that going out the door is going to hurt you a little bit, I do, but I just think – I trust Pep to turn it around again.”
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How likely Manchester City are to face Kevin De Bruyne
De Bruyne has joined Napoli, who are in the Champions League along Manchester City, so there’s a good possibility they could have a reunion this coming season.
The draw for the 2025/26 league phase will take place on 28 August 2025, with teams ranked in four seeding pots.
Man City are in Pot 1, while Napoli are certain to be in Pot 3, according to ESPN.