Voted for by professional footballers across the globe, it is the latest prestigious accolade bestowed on the midfielder and provides the perfect end to a wonderful 2020 for a player now widely recognised as one of the world’s finest.
The 29-year-old has also been named as the 2019-20 Premier League Playmaker, the Premier League Player of the Season, the PFA Player of the Year and the UEFA Midfielder of the Season during a remarkable calendar year.
“It’s a great honour to be recognised in this way by other professionals,” De Bruyne said of the news.
“To be included in a world XI by players who are competing against you to be the very best is a huge achievement and one that is very humbling.
“I go out every game trying to set the example for the guys around me and hopefully this shows that I did that over the last 12 months.
“I think my performances have been good and they’ve also been consistent which is an important measure for any professional footballer.
“The aim is to use this individual success and turn it into more trophies and titles with both club and country.”
Pep Guardiola added: “All of us here at Manchester City are happy and proud Kevin has been selected in this incredible team containing the best XI players of the year.
“His vision, speed of thought, the detailed way he sees the game and his technical quality mean he possesses everything a top midfielder needs to excel.
“We are lucky to have him at Manchester City.
“Being named in a world XI voted for by his rivals says everything you need to know. It is further recognition of his ability and shows the respect he has throughout the game.
“It is a pleasure to coach someone who is so professional and such nice person. His lovely parents should be so, so proud.”
Everyone connected to City is so proud of Kevin and we are delighted to have the opportunity to watch him closely.
Well done, KDB!
WATCH OUR KEVIN DE BRUYNE DOCUMENTARY MADE IN BELGIUM ON CITY+
