Manchester City were a good team before Kevin De Bruyne arrived. He turned them into a dominant force.
They have won six of the last seven Premier League titles and the treble in 2022-23. De Bruyne has been at the heart of their success over the last decade.
A New Era of Dominance
Before De Bruyne joined Manchester City in 2015, they had already won two Premier League titles in the previous four seasons. The club had talented players, but they lacked consistent dominance. His arrival changed everything.
Under Pep Guardiola, he became the centrepiece of City’s play. His vision, passing, and intelligence transformed them into one of the best teams in the world. Few players have influenced a club as much as he has.
Since his move from Wolfsburg, De Bruyne has helped City win 16 trophies. That includes six Premier League titles and the Champions League in 2023. His legacy at the Etihad is undeniable.
De Bruyne: The Ultimate Playmaker
De Bruyne has set new standards for playmakers in English soccer. His ability to break defences with a single pass is unmatched. He combines technical brilliance with a strong physical presence. City’s system revolves around his creativity. His understanding of space allows him to dictate games. Even in matches where he does not score or assist, his influence is clear.
His statistics highlight his dominance. He has registered 118 Premier League assists. His passing range and set-piece delivery are world-class. Finding a replacement will not be easy.
City’s Struggles Without de Bruyne
De Bruyne, who turns 34 in June, is past his prime. Injuries have limited his impact in recent seasons. Even so, City (2.13) struggle without him.
They are already seeing how much they will miss him. Without him at his best, their attack lacks the same fluidity. No one in their squad can replicate his creativity.
Guardiola has tried different solutions, but none have worked as well. Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku have stepped up at various times, but they are not playmakers in De Bruyne’s mould. Manchester City will need to adapt when he leaves at the end of the 2024-25 season.
The Best in City’s History?
Manchester City have had many great players. Sergio Aguero, David Silva, and Vincent Kompany all played key roles in their rise. However, De Bruyne has had the biggest influence.
His consistency over a decade sets him apart. He has been central to the club’s best period. His ability to deliver in big games makes him a true great.
Aguero was City’s best goalscorer. Silva was a magician in midfield. Kompany was a leader at the back. De Bruyne, however, has been the most complete player of them all.
A Future Without De Bruyne
Replacing him will be a huge challenge. The transfer market has options, but few players can match his quality. Manchester City will likely have to change their style.
Young talents like Florian Wirtz of Bayer Leverkusen could be considered. However, adapting to Guardiola’s system takes time. City may struggle in the short term.
De Bruyne’s departure will mark the end of an era. Online sports betting markets will reflect City’s uncertain future. Their dominance may not be as strong without their key playmaker.
Conclusion
Kevin De Bruyne is arguably Manchester City’s greatest player ever. His influence has been unmatched. Finding someone better will be almost impossible. City was successful before he arrived. But he took them to another level. His legacy at the club is secure.
