Manchester City gave Kevin De Bruyne a memorable send-off with a crucial 3-1 victory over Bournemouth on Tuesday, strengthening their grip on a Champions League spot for next season.
Goals from Omar Marmoush, Bernardo Silva, and Nico Gonzalez lifted Pep Guardiola’s side to third place ahead of the final round of Premier League matches. Despite going down to 10 men after Mateo Kovacic was sent off, City held firm, especially after Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook also received a red card minutes later.
There was further cause for celebration as Ballon d’Or winner Rodri returned from a long injury layoff, making his first appearance since September.
Following their FA Cup final loss to Crystal Palace on Saturday, City needed a response—and they delivered in style on an emotional night at the Etihad, which marked De Bruyne’s final home game after a decade of legendary service. The club unveiled a mosaic and named a road after the Belgian, who was welcomed by a giant banner reading “King Kev” as he led the team out.
Marmoush, who had missed a penalty at Wembley, opened the scoring with a thunderous strike off the post in the 14th minute. De Bruyne nearly added a fairytale goal but struck the crossbar from close range. Bournemouth came close to equalizing through Evanilson, but he too hit the post.
City doubled their lead before halftime through Silva, after a slick assist from Ilkay Gundogan. Kovacic’s red card threatened to turn the tide, but Cook’s rash challenge on Gonzalez evened the playing field.
Rodri’s return brought another standing ovation before Gonzalez sealed the win with a curling strike in the 89th minute—his first Premier League goal. Daniel Jebbison pulled one back for Bournemouth deep in stoppage time, but it was too little too late.
The result ends Bournemouth’s hopes of European qualification as they stay 11th, while City need just a point against Fulham on Sunday to guarantee a top-five finish, likely enough for Champions League qualification.
Elsewhere, Crystal Palace continued their post-cup triumph momentum, beating Wolves 4-2 at Selhurst Park. Eddie Nketiah scored twice, and Eberechi Eze added to the tally in a commanding performance.
What you should know
Kevin De Bruyne’s final home appearance capped a decade of brilliance at City, marked by six league titles and a Champions League win.
His farewell, combined with Rodri’s return and a key win, provides a morale boost as City aim to secure Champions League football on the final day.
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