'He didn't seem happy': Kevin De Bruyne first down the tunnel after a 'sour' greeting from Pep Guardiola
Kevin De Bruyne was certainly not in the festive spirit after walking down the tunnel immediately after Manchester City's 1-1 draw against Everton.
He Citizens The midfielder came on in the 75th minute of the Boxing Day clash at the Etihad, but barely made an impact off the bench.
And not wanting to stay, he 33 years Instead, he headed straight into the tunnel.
Upon leaving the field of play, the Belgian international was received by pep guardiolabut it's safe to say their interaction was anything but friendly.
Although that is not a surprise given The terrible shape of the citywith the Premier League champions winning just once in their last 13 matches in all competitions.
Commenting on De Bruyne's abrupt exit, talkSPORT presenter Adrian Durham said: “What was telling in the end is that Kevin De Bruyne was probably the first one down the tunnel.”
Which former City defender? Danny Millscommentator for talkSPORT, responded: “I realized that, he just turned and left the field.
“Pep approached him, but it was very bitter, wasn't it? It wasn't a pat on the back or a handshake.
“I think Kevin De Bruyne didn't seem happy. Yes, he will be disappointed with the result.
“But I think he'll still be very, very disappointed because he only had, what, 15 minutes or so?”
City fans were also quick to notice De Bruyne's quick exit, as one X user said: “Don't blame him, I would have done the same.”
Another posted: “Can't blame him, it's a shame to keep him on the bench for so long.”
A third added: “Hopefully he's one of the first to arrive in Saudi Arabia with an attitude like that.”
This follower then sent a message: “Sorry but sell it in January, love it but time is up.”
Meanwhile, this fan simply said, “He doesn't give a damn.”
It was only last week that Guardiola left De Bruyne on the bench as Aston Villa beat City 2-1 in the Midlands.
De Bruyne, in the final year of his City contract, has once again suffered through an injury-plagued season so far.
He has contributed just two goals and as many assists in ten top-flight games this season.
It remains to be seen what the future holds for De Bruyne, as the player will be able to talk to foreign clubs about a free transfer from January.
talkSPORT understands that MLS clubs are ready to jumpand they could formalize their interest next month.
San Diego FC could test City's resolve to retain their title-winning midfielder by making an offer to release him from his contract six months early.
David BeckhamInter Miami are also believed to be monitoring De Bruyne's situation.
De Bruyne is understood to favor a move to MLS over the riches of the Saudi Pro League in the event of an exit from the Etihad Stadium.
City have yet to show any indication that they want to renew the midfielder's contract.
But as things stand, City have bigger things to worry about than the De Bruyne situation, with the club 11 points behind leaders Liverpool.
Guardiola's side have won just once in their last nine Premier League games and have lost six times.
Next up for De Bruyne and City is a trip to face Leicester on December 29.