Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne reportedly faces a financial hit after his club were banned from European football for two years.
HLN in Belgium claim that the 28-year-old will miss out on €3million – just under £2.5million – in bonuses in his City contract due to the fact that he won’t be playing in the Champions League for the two seasons immediately following the current one.
City were sensationally banned from continental competitions for two years on Friday as a result of an investigation into Financial Fair Play breaches.
The club have indicated that they will appeal the ruling, and are soon to take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
(Image: Getty Images)
It has been suggested that stars such as De Bruyne – who signed a new six-year, £280,000 a week contract at City in January 2018 – might consider leaving the club as a result of the ban, but boss Pep Guardiola has stated his commitment to the club and Raheem Sterling also wants to stay.
Former City assistant boss Mikel Arteta, who is now the manager of Arsenal, expressed his support for Guardiola and staff at the club following the news.
(Image: REUTERS)
“My first reaction was I was shocked, then being in contact with Pep and the people at the club that I know to feel for them because I know they are suffering,” said Arteta after Arsenal’s 4-0 win over Newcastle on Sunday.
“I just want the best for City.
“The admiration and love I have for Pep, not only Pep but the staff, the players, I just want the best for them. I know how hard they work and hopefully a positive thing can come from it.”
