The Belgian is only the third player to win the award in successive years and the first to do so in over a decade.
His influence on the pitch cannot be overstated and, when called upon, he has thrived in a more advanced role in the absence of recognised forwards Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus.
With Sergio Aguero moving on to pastures new, only captain Fernandinho has been at the Club longer than De Bruyne, with the Belgian rounding off his sixth season at City with a fourth Premier League title.
The 29-year-old was also nominated as vice-captain at the beginning of the season, and feels that his new-found responsibility has helped him to reach new heights.
He reflected: “I had to fulfil a job that the coach wanted me to do (this season) and the fact the players chose me for this award means I’ve done really well.
“Off the pitch, (my responsibilities) change every year, I’m becoming more a leader on and off the pitch.
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“I try to help (Fernandinho) as his wingman to get everything in order.
“I’m learning a lot about myself and about the way the team is run. It can only help me for the future.”
Hear Kevin’s thoughts on being voted as PFA Players’ player of the year via the video above…
