The Belgian midfielder scored the first and created the second in the 2-1 win and was eventually crowned Man of the Match after a battling second half display.
The Blues had to defend well in the closing stages but De Bruyne believes it shows the character of his teammates to adapt to the match situation.
He said: “It was difficult, especially in the second half, because they were much stronger physically and in the air but I think we coped well and we had the chances to get the third in the second half.
“It was a fight until the end and we’ve very happy. In the first half we were excellent but it was hard for us after they scored the goal.
“After the first 15 minutes of the second half we came back stronger and had to change our style a bit because they had a few chances. It was a fight until the end and we’re very happy to get the win.”
Asked whether the victory means more to the club than any other league win, De Bruyne was coy with his answer.
“For the fans, yes. For us it is only three points but we’re happy and the fans will certainly celebrate tonight,” he said.
Kelechi Iheanacho was City’s other scorer on the afternoon and the Nigerian was delighted with his performance after his first start in a Manchester derby.
“It’s a dream come true to play in the Manchester derby and get the winning goal. I’m very happy for my team because they worked very hard and I’m happy for the fans too,” the 19-year-old said.
“It was about being in the right place at the right time and I’m so happy I had the chance to score.”
