How Kevin de Bruyne's innovative negotiation tactics changed how players demand new contracts
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Manchester City ace Kevin de Bruyne || Image credit: Imago

How Kevin de Bruyne's innovative negotiation tactics changed how players demand new contracts

Faruq Ibrahim 21:53 - 03.01.2024

Players all over the world now use the contract negotiation tactic pioneered by Manchester City star Kevin de Bruyne.

Kevin De Bruyne, Manchester City's midfield maestro, has not only revolutionised the way football is played but has also changed the game off the pitch, especially in contract negotiations.

 In 2021, De Bruyne turned heads not just with his on-field brilliance but with his savvy approach to contract renewal, setting a new precedent in the world of football.

De Bruyne's Data-Driven Negotiation: A Game Changer

When it was time to discuss his contract renewal with Manchester City, De Bruyne didn't just walk into the room; he brought with him a deep analysis of his own data. By utilising detailed analytics to highlight his immense value to the team, he changed the dynamics of player negotiations. 

This move underscored the significance of performance data in securing better contracts for top-tier players. It was a masterstroke, demonstrating how stats and numbers could powerfully advocate for a player's worth.

Pioneering a New Era in Player Power

De Bruyne's approach was not just about numbers; it was a statement of player empowerment. Opting to negotiate without a traditional agent, he enlisted the expertise of two respected lawyers and the services of leading football analytics providers, including Analytics FC. 

Man City star Kevin De Bruyne || Imago
Man City star Kevin De Bruyne || Imago

Their "signature service" provided groundbreaking data analysis, further solidifying De Bruyne's critical role at Manchester City. This method of negotiation, rooted in concrete performance metrics, has sparked a new trend among elite players.

The impact of De Bruyne's negotiation technique is now reverberating through the corridors of football clubs, particularly as the winter transfer window opens. Club representatives are bracing for similar data-driven discussions. High-profile players, like Kylian Mbappé, might follow in De Bruyne's footsteps as they approach contract extensions or seek new opportunities in 2024.

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