Kevin De Bruyne has revealed that the inactivity of the coronavirus lockdown has prompted thoughts about extending his career for far longer than he had initially planned.
The Manchester City midfielder hasn't played since 1 March with the Premier League and UEFA competitions suspended indefinitely due to the outbreak. The midfielder has clearly missed football, and this has aided him in his decision to prolong his career.
Being at home has made De Bruyne realise just how important football is to him, and the 28-year-old now wishes to extend his career by a further two seasons.
Speaking during a Instagram Live broadcast, as quoted by ESPN, the City's midfield dynamo said: "I told my wife I'm going to play a little bit longer after the lockdown. I cannot stay at home."
De Bruyne added. "I'm going to play two more years. It's hard, man.
The Belgian has enjoyed a great season so far, and he currently leads the Premier League in assists with a total of 16. He would have been anticipating this summer with Belgium qualifying for the Euros, but alas, he will now have to wait for 2021.
During the lockdown, De Bruyne has spent some of his time in isolation playing Fortnite with Dele Alli, and the pair donated $2m towards the COVID-19 relief appeal.
Honored to take part in today’s @Twitch Stream Aid live stream on Fortnite with @dele_official to raise money for a great cause Together, we’ve donated over $2M and counting towards COVID-19 relief. Tx for the support and please #StayAtHome! #RocFamily @rocnationsports pic.twitter.com/yrRCtfrr81
— Kevin De Bruyne (@DeBruyneKev) March 28, 2020
The Manchester City squad have been staying in touch via WhatsApp and Pep Guardiola has been monitoring their fitness. The Cityzen's last game was a 2-0 defeat in the Manchester derby, and this will still be firmly planted in Guardiola's mind.
De Bruyne has even purchased a treadmill to make sure he stays in top condition. "I'm swimming every day. Running almost every day now," he revealed.
Source : 90min