He may not have found the scoresheet himself but, not for the first time in his storied City career, De Bruyne orchestrated a crucial and deserved 3-0 victory over the Seagulls.
The hugely important triumph saw Pep Guardiola’s side move a vital step closer towards subsequently claiming the 2022/23 Premier League title.
It also served as the perfect illustration of the talent, technique, drive and vision that were the hallmarks of KDB’s glittering decade at the Etihad.
What’s more, the way the creative midfielder helped inspire City back to top spot in the Premier League and so leapfrog Liverpool was also a fitting way to mark what was De Bruyne’s 300th appearance for City.
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In what proved a testing assignment against a talented and well-organised Brighton, City had been frustrated in the opening 45 minutes as we sought to create the crucial breakthrough.
Enter De Bruyne.
With 53 minutes on the clock, the brilliant Belgian again proved the man for the moment, his skill and ingenuity helping City finally break the Seagulls’ stubborn resistance.
KDB embarked on a surging run from inside his own half one which saw him twice keep going when he could easily have stopped to claim a foul.
De Bruyne then withstood a third challenge before finding Riyad Mahrez, providing the Algerian with the opportunity to beat Robert Sanchez with a deflected strike to break the deadlock.
Phil Foden then struck to deservedly double City’s advantage before De Bruyne delivered once again to set up the goal of the night eight minutes from time.
The Belgian expertly diverted the the faintest of passes into the path of Bernardo Silva who then sealed the deal.
It was a victory that sent City back into top spot – and one that saw De Bruyne afforded another standing ovation from the Etihad as he made way five minutes from time.
It also drew fulsome and heartfelt words of praise from admiring manager Pep Guardiola
“What a signing. The club signed him before I arrived here and big congratulations to the club,” Pep declared.
“He’s a special person, a special human being and a special football player.
“When he is fit and happy… with his feet [and quality] he is an unstoppable player in that position, in the transitions especially.
“I think he is playing this last part of the season amazingly.”
City v Brighton tickets on general sale
We welcome an entertaining Brighton side to the Etihad at 19:30 (UK) on Wednesday 7 January.
And with tickets now on general sale, you could be there to see it!
Fans can now claim three tickets each, with adults from £30 and concessions as low as £15.
Or make it a night to remember with hospitality packages starting from just £180 per person and a wide range of experiences available to suit your budget.
