A couple of years ago, Kevin De Bruyne was labeled as a Premier League flop. This season, he seems to have found his feet in the English top flight.
The Belgian midfielder, one of Manchester City's most expensive summer signings, crafted the Sky Blues' three goal lead in just nine minutes by handing out two assists. The first one came with a cross for Raheem Sterling, who headed the ball into the back of the net just after thirteen minutes. Then, De Bruyne's skills were put to good use by Wilfried Bony, who scored one more goal for the Citizens after 22 minutes and taking advantage of De Bruyne's pinpoint passing.
Kevin De Bruyne has now been directly involved in 11 goals in 14 Premier League appearances for Man City (4G, 7A). pic.twitter.com/fgVlU6XfbS
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) December 26, 2015
De Bruyne also showed his ball handling skills with this massive nutmeg.
Stop it De Bruyne!!! pic.twitter.com/CEI55fesFw
— City Vines (@City_Vines) December 26, 2015
Here's what fans had to say about his display in the first 45 minutes.
Kevin de Bruyne 11assits so far this season. Surely one of the best summer buys in the league #Mcfc
— Natalie Pike (@MissNataliePike) December 26, 2015
De Bruyne 2 assists. Well done Jose.
— #CarefreeDaily (@CarefreeDaily) December 26, 2015
Most chances created in Europe’s top 5 leagues in 2015: Ozil- 123 Payet- 111 Nolito- 100 Hazard- 96 De Bruyne- 94 pic.twitter.com/NWgC8MjyCJ
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 24, 2015
Kevin De Bruyne be assisting like.. https://t.co/cIP9gSwRkk #MCFC
— The City Bulletin (@TheCityBulletin) December 26, 2015
Later in the game, De Bruyne scored the game's fourth goal for the Citizens, capping a wonderful performance in front of an ecstatic home crowd.