Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was simply masterful for Manchester City. His contributions were a major factor in the team’s 5-2 runaway, jaw-dropper over Crystal Palace. The usual scene before City’s match against Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium a recent Saturday. De Bruyne registered his first Premier League start of the season, having battled through a tide of injuries.
The match opened with Crystal Palace sprinting to a quick-fire, two-goal advantage, leaving City in a high-pressure situation early on. De Bruyne’s return to form was pivotal in altering the match’s trajectory. He proved that wizardry with a great experience and skill free kick in the 33rd minute. The ball flew by Palace’s netminder, Dean Henderson, caromed off the post, and then into the goal. This goal brought City’s deficit down to 2-1 and sparked new life into their hopes of a turnaround.
De Bruyne’s influence on the pitch didn’t end with his goal. And then after the halftime break, he delivered an assist for Mateo Kovacic’s goal that put City up 3-2. The accuracy of Phillips’s reading of the game and his distribution shone through as City turned the momentum in their favor. The 33-year-old midfielder was equally dazzling off the pitch, with can’t-miss performances. He showed fans and haters everyone all over again why he is considered one of the Premier League’s all-time greats.
With De Bruyne orchestrating play, City scored three more goals in added time, capping a stunning comeback victory. His ferocious full-strength 25-yard strike was a reminder of his attacking prowess. It careened off the post and showcased his tireless determination to positively impact his team’s success. De Bruyne’s masterclass performance was a show in which he showcased not just his technical talents but his leadership on the pitch.
De Bruyne has been with Manchester City since 2015. Since then he’s become an undisputed leader and the most important catalyst propelling the Warriors to greatness. He fought through injuries last year that stymied his overall effectiveness. Now fully fit, he’s leading City’s push for a fifth place finish in the Premier League. The England international’s knack for motivating his team and changing the momentum of the match further highlights his value to the west London club.
This Saturday’s Premier League clash with Crystal Palace will be another key moment for De Bruyne this season. He has since fought back from those career-threatening injury woes. His performance was a timely reminder of what he’s capable of and the difference he can make to a game when fully fit. Meanwhile, Manchester City continues to afford themselves every opportunity to remain one of the league’s elite. With more wins needed, De Bruyne’s influence will be key.
