Vincent Kompany has said that he knew it was time to leave Manchester City once he scored in the penultimate round against Leicester.
With 20 minutes remaining and needing a win to remain in first place, Kompany found the top corner after launching a rocket from outside the box.
The goal was arguably the most decisive in the title race, given City were not really tested the following week in their 4-1 win at Brighton.
Kompany knew he was finished once that ball hit the back of the net.
“The moment that ball against Leicester went top bins, I knew I was done. I couldn’t do anything better,” he said.
“I’ve done everything I could, I’ve given everything I had. I’ve got nothing left, I’ve given everything.”
The Belgian will leave the club after 11 years with eight of those wearing the captain’s armband.
In his stay he won four Premier League titles, three FA Cups and four League Cups.
He will also go down as the man who captained City to a domestic treble, a feat never before achieved in English football.
Manager Pep Guardiola spoke in admiration of Kompany during City’s title winning parade.
“We’re going to miss him a lot. I’m going to miss him, but he is going to see us in the future because he is coming back sooner or later,” he said.
“It’s the best way to say goodbye after an incredible season together. He was a real captain, he helped us a lot. We’re going to show him how we love him.”
Kompany will re-join boyhood club Anderlecht as a player/manager after signing a three-year deal with the Belgian outfit.
