On a memorable night for the Club, six of our players were nominated in the men’s category for Player of the Year – with De Bruyne finishing third, while former City star Lucy Bronze who left in the summer, was nominated in the women’s player of the year category.
Meanwhile, Ederson finished third in the race for the Yashin Trophy.
And in accepting the award for Club of the Year along with team-mate Ederson, CEO Ferran Soriano and Football Director Txiki Begiristain, De Bruyne pointed to the sense of belonging and special philosophy that underpins the Club’s approach to football.
“I’ve been there eight years, I’ve come to a family who wants to play a philosophy of making people entertained,” De Bruyne declared.
“We try to play in the right way that is good for us and we try to inspire young children to play in that way.
“It’s been exciting – we’ve won a lot. Obviously, we’ve not won the Champions League yet but I think we are proud of the way we perform as team and so we should.”
For his part, Begiristain – who has won widespread plaudits for his key role in recruitment – pointed to the unique qualities of manager Pep Guardiola and the way the boss always seeks to inspire more from his players and staff.
“Pep is just brilliant. It’s a constant evolution – there is always something new almost every day,” said Begiristain.
“And it’s based on hard work and respect – to the opponents and the competitions that we play.
“Basically, he is a good guy. When we lose, he is always leading and pushing us to be better, and when we win, he shares everything with everyone - kitmen, chefs - he is a top guy.”
And for CEO Soriano, the blueprint towards City’s success was a commitment shared by everyone who works tirelessly across all departments at the Club – as well as a determination to always face the next challenge head on.
“Everybody at Manchester City - from the ownership, the chairman, the board, our talented football director, our amazing players - men and women - and everybody who works at the club - we are very thankful,” said the CEO.
“We know that this comes with very hard work and we have enjoyed the ride so far but we also know that the next game is always the most challenging one.
“Winning is difficult but winning again and again is much more difficult - this is our commitment: to stay focused and keep delivering beautiful football.”
