Kevin De Bruyne, a name synonymous with elegance, precision, and consistency, has become one of the most influential players in Premier League history. As he prepares to bid farewell to Manchester City, his impact on the Premier League is undeniable. In a career that spanned almost a decade at the heart of Manchester City’s midfield, De Bruyne played an instrumental role in the club’s dominance both domestically and internationally. Let’s look back at some of Kevin De Bruyne’s most unforgettable moments in the Premier League, a collection of moments that have defined his legacy as one of the best players to ever grace the competition.
1. Stunning Strike Against Chelsea (2017)
In the 2017-2018 Premier League season, Kevin De Bruyne delivered one of the most memorable goals of his career in a crucial match against Chelsea. A visit to Stamford Bridge was made all the more special when De Bruyne unleashed a thunderous left-footed strike from outside the box that beat Chelsea’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The goal not only secured a 1-0 win for City but also symbolized De Bruyne’s renaissance after his time at Chelsea, where he struggled for regular game time. This stunning moment was just the beginning of what would become an era of dominance for Manchester City, with De Bruyne as the key orchestrator.
2. Four-Goal Performance Against Wolves (2022)
May 2022 witnessed a truly remarkable performance by Kevin De Bruyne in a 5-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Scoring four goals in just 23 minutes, De Bruyne displayed his full range of attacking talents. From long-range shots to clinical finishes inside the box, De Bruyne showed just how versatile he was. His four goals came in quick succession, demonstrating his sharpness, vision, and impeccable technique. This was undoubtedly one of the most explosive performances ever seen in the Premier League, as De Bruyne single-handedly dismantled Wolves and cemented his place as one of the league’s most influential midfielders.
3. Title-Clinching Assist Against Manchester United (2018)
During the 2017-2018 Premier League season, Manchester City were on the cusp of securing the title, and their match against bitter rivals Manchester United at the Etihad was pivotal. With the score level at 1-1, De Bruyne provided a brilliantly weighted assist to Vincent Kompany, whose header helped City to a 2-1 win. This goal helped City clinch the Premier League title and marked one of De Bruyne’s most important contributions to the team. It was a moment that reflected his vision and selflessness, as he knew when to deliver the perfect pass at just the right moment.
4. Champions League Heroics Against PSG (2021)
kevin De Bruyne’s influence wasn’t confined to domestic football. In the 2021 UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain, De Bruyne provided one of the most iconic moments of his career. In the first leg, City were down 1-0 when De Bruyne picked up the ball on the edge of the box and curled in an equalizer that sent the Etihad Stadium into raptures. The goal was not just a spectacular strike; it was a moment that epitomized De Bruyne’s calmness under pressure. His performances in Europe helped propel City to their first-ever Champions League final, showcasing his ability to deliver in the biggest moments.
5. PFA Player of the Year Award (2020)
In the 2019-2020 Premier League season, De Bruyne enjoyed a career-defining campaign. He scored 13 goals and provided 20 assists in the league, matching a record set by Thierry Henry. His ability to dictate the tempo of games, orchestrate attacks, and chip in with goals made him a standout player. For his efforts, De Bruyne was awarded the PFA Player of the Year, an acknowledgment of his consistency and brilliance. His extraordinary contribution to Manchester City’s success that season proved that he was not just one of the league’s best but also one of the world’s top footballers.
6. Treble-Winning Season (2022–2023)
The 2022-2023 season marked the pinnacle of Manchester City’s dominance in the Premier League and beyond, with De Bruyne playing a pivotal role. City secured the treble: the Premier League, the FA Cup, and the UEFA Champions League. De Bruyne’s performances in the league were key to City’s success, as his exceptional passing and ability to unlock defences made him invaluable. His vision and leadership helped the team navigate tight matches, and his assist in the FA Cup final and crucial goals in the Champions League showcased his importance. The treble-winning season cemented De Bruyne’s place in Manchester City’s history as one of their greatest players.
SUGGESTED FOR YOU
Europa Cup Final: 7 Most Thrilling and Historic Matches That Defined Football
7. Farewell Performance Against Leicester City (2025)
As De Bruyne’s career with Manchester City came to a close in 2025, his farewell match against Leicester City was an emotional one. Not only did he score a fantastic goal in the game, but he also provided two assists to wrap up his final home performance for City. It was a fitting farewell, as De Bruyne received a standing ovation from fans and teammates alike. His legacy was cemented with this final performance, which was a reflection of the many years he had spent at the heart of City’s midfield, orchestrating play and winning titles. Fans and football enthusiasts alike will remember this moment as one of the many highlights of his remarkable career.
Conclusion
Kevin De Bruyne’s Premier League journey has been nothing short of legendary. His moments of brilliance, from spectacular goals to pivotal assists, have not only helped Manchester City dominate the Premier League but have also shaped the landscape of English football. His departure marks the end of an era for City, but his legacy will live on for years to come. Whether it was his sublime vision, his technical prowess, or his leadership, De Bruyne’s contributions have forever etched him into Premier League history. As one of the league’s all-time greats, Kevin De Bruyne’s moments will continue to be celebrated long after his final whistle.
This retrospective only scratches the surface of Kevin De Bruyne’s incredible impact on the Premier League. From his dazzling assists to his unforgettable goals, his career will remain a benchmark for midfielders in English football for many years to come.
