Kevin De Bruyne Targets Champions League Spot Before Exit from City
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Synopsis
Kevin De Bruyne is set to leave Manchester City after securing a Champions League spot for the next season. The skipper played a pivotal role in the 5-2 victory against Crystal Palace, scoring and assisting. Guardiola praised his return to form after overcoming injury struggles.
Key Takeaways
- Kevin De Bruyne aims to leave Manchester City.
- He helped secure a Champions League spot for next season.
- De Bruyne scored and assisted in a 5-2 win over Crystal Palace.
- He has been involved in 14 goals against the Eagles.
- Pep Guardiola praised De Bruyne's return to form.
Manchester, April 12 (NationPress) Kevin De Bruyne aims to depart Manchester City after helping the team secure a Champions League position for the upcoming season. The City captain showcased his exceptional skills during Saturday's pivotal 5-2 win over Crystal Palace in the Premier League, scoring and providing an assist for Mateo Kovacic.
This match marked De Bruyne's return to the Etihad Stadium following his announcement of leaving the club in the summer, and his impact was undeniable.
“I want to leave with a Champions League berth for this team because they deserve it. We have been part of the Champions League for nearly a decade during my time here, so I hope we can achieve that for the team next year. I'll continue to play the good football I've always played,” De Bruyne stated post-match.
After City fell behind 2-0, thanks to goals from Eberechi Eze and Chris Richards, the captain rose to the occasion, successfully converting a free-kick to bring the hosts back into the game. He then directed a header towards Omar Marmoush, who leveled the score before halftime. Shortly after the break, he assisted Kovacic, who scored to give City the lead.
With his performance on Saturday, De Bruyne has now been involved in 14 goals against the Eagles (5 goals, 9 assists).
Pep Guardiola, the head coach, noted that De Bruyne is now competing without pain after overcoming a difficult period with injuries and has returned to his usual form.
[It was] the Kevin we have known for many years. I know he has faced struggles for the last year and a half. He is pain-free and a completely different player. The way we played has benefitted him greatly, thanks to the incredible runners, the young players, and the full-backs,” Guardiola mentioned.
