Kevin De Bruyne has had better individual performances than the one he had yesterday during Manchester City’s 1-nil win over Chelsea at Wembley. But he may not have had one that relied on the sheer will to win and the determination to see his team progress as he did yesterday. The FA Cup holders booked their place in this season’s FA Cup final with a determined display to overcome Mauricio Pochettino’s side. De Bruyne played a key role in dragging his team to a famous victory yesterday.
The quality in Kevin De Bruyne’s game is well known. He has established himself as arguably the best midfielder in Premier League history during his time at Manchester City. With his eye for a pass and the ability to shoot and pass on either foot, his reputation in English football is well established. But yesterday, saw another side of De Bruyne’s game that is rarely mentioned. His determination and drive helped inspire his team to a famous victory at Wembley yesterday.
For large parts of yesterday’s game, Kevin De Bruyne was just off. His final delivery wasn’t at his usual high standards, and he and his teammates appeared tired after their midweek exertions. But he showed the heart of a champion to lift his side when they needed someone to step up. It was a trademark De Bruyne run and cross that set up Bernardo Silva’s 84th minute winner. Despite being tired and just off, De Bruyne showed that he wouldn’t let his team lose in one trademark moment of brilliance.
This season has been a battle at times for Kevin De Bruyne. He missed 5 months of the season due to a hamstring injury he suffered on the opening day. While he has shown his immense quality on occasions at other times, he has appeared to be battling his body as age and injuries catch up to the Manchester City legend.
But his impact on Pep Guardiola’s side can not be questioned. While he wasn’t quite at his magical best yesterday, he was determined to lift his team to another FA Cup final. Come the final whistle, Kevin De Bruyne had done just that with the help of his teammates. Manchester City needed a leader yesterday to stand up and drag them to victory. As his team battled fatigue and a determined Chelsea, it was De Bruyne who helped carry them to a famous victory.
Champions overcome adversity and circumstance, which is what makes them so great. Kevin De Bruyne showed all of that in spades yesterday at Wembley. It was a performance for the ages from the Belgian international. Not in typical De Bruyne fashion but one that showed his immense will ton win and drive to succeed.
More must-reads: