Kevin De Bruyne to stay at Chelsea after Jose Mourinho gives forward assurances
The Belgian's agent says the forward had a telephone conversation with the manager
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Belgium forward Kevin De Bruyne is happy to fight for a place in the Chelsea side after being assured by Jose Mourinho that he is part of the first-team squad plans for the forthcoming season.
After impressing on loan at Werder Bremen following his move to Chelsea in January 2012, De Bruyne was linked with a move to Borussia Dortmund.
The 21-year-old, who spoke with Mourinho on the phone ahead of Belgium's match with Serbia earlier this month, is now set for an opportunity with the Blues.
De Bruyne's agent Patrick De Koster told Press Association Sport: "Mr Mourinho gave a phone call to Kevin, explaining a little bit the situation for next season.
"Afterwards, Kevin played the game (for Belgium against Serbia), received congratulations from the coach and then he left on holiday.
"A year and a half ago when he signed a contract at Chelsea, it was like a dream which became reality.
"Afterwards it was important for Kevin to put the right steps at the right moments.
"Kevin wants to play. Playing football, he became a better football player. I think he proved it staying six months more in Genk and last season in Bremen.
"He did very well. Now it's up to him to prove the same thing at Chelsea."
De Bruyne is one of three Belgians who could have a big impact at Stamford Bridge next season, alongside established first-team regular Eden Hazard and striker Romelu Lukaku, who spent last term at West Brom.
Mourinho offered no assurances to De Bruyne over game time, though.
De Koster added: "We didn't receive any guarantees, but it's normal in a team like Chelsea.
"It's up to him to prove like he did in the last 18 months."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments