Kevin de Bruyne’s Return Transforms Manchester City’s Fortunes. Kevin de Bruyne’s absence left a noticeable void in the Manchester City lineup. Regarded as one of the greatest footballers of his generation, de Bruyne suffered a hamstring ιnjury during the team’s first Premier League match of the 2023-24 season, sidelining him for nearly five months.

City’s performance suffered in de Bruyne’s absence, and they found themselves slipping to fourth place in the league standings. For a team that had been dominant and favorites to win their fourth consecutive Premier League title, this was unfamiliar territory. De Bruyne’s absence was clearly felt as Pep Guardiola’s side struggled to maintain their previous level of performance.

However, de Bruyne made his return from ιnjury in January, and since then, City has regained their aura of invincibility. The 32-year-old made his way back into the matchday squad on December 30th against Sheffield United after missing 27 games across various competitions.

A week later, he provided a beautiful assist off the bench in a 5-0 victory against Huddersfield in the FA Cup. In his first Premier League appearance since his ιnjury, de Bruyne once again came off the bench in the second half against Newcastle United and scored the equalizer for City. Not only that, his pass set up Oscar Bobb’s stoppage-time winner, securing a crucial 3-2 victory. Without de Bruyne, it’s hard to imagine how City would have overcome the challenge posed by Newcastle, the same team that knocked them out of the League Cup earlier in the season.

In another FA Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur, de Bruyne’s corner in the dying minutes of the game proved instrumental in City’s victory. On January 31st, he provided another assist as City defeated Burnley 3-1 in the Premier League. Four wins in four matches since de Bruyne’s return speak volumes about his impact on the team.

Many believe that his return has effectively ended the Premier League title race, with City set to reclaim the top spot and potentially secure a historic fourth consecutive title. Currently, they sit in third place, five points behind Liverpool, who have played two more games.

City fans are elated, and Guardiola expressed his joy, stating, “Kevin must know how much the people love him. He’s incredible. Kevin, until he decides to leave or retires, will forever be one of the most beloved players. We are really pleased for him.” The Etihad Stadium resounded with chants of “oh Kevin de Bruyne” during the Huddersfield game.

De Bruyne joined City in 2015 from Wolfsburg and has played a pivotal role in the team’s success on the field ever since. He has won five Premier League titles and one Champions League trophy. He has also been honored with the Professional Footballers’ Association me𝚗’s Players’ Player of the Year award twice. Undoubtedly, he is the backbone of the City team, with his exceptional vision, ball control, and ability to deliver precise passes.

It’s no wonder City fans are celebrating his return. De Bruyne’s standards are so high that Guardiola even complained about him missing a free-kιck opportunity against Newcastle, despite scoring a goal and providing an assist. Cesc Fabregas, a World Cup winner with Spain, likened de Bruyne to a boy with new boots following his return from ιnjury. Such accolades highlight the immense impact he has on the team. His return is unwelcome news for City’s rivals, whose troubles have multiplied with his comeback.