Kevin De Bruyne looks fit and ready for a big season after his cameo in the FA Community Shield loss against Arsenal.
City’s midfield maestro looked like his usual self after coming on as a second-half substitute. He had returned earlier than expected from the hamstring injury suffered in last season’s UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan.
— Kevin De Bruyne (@KevinDeBruyne) August 5, 2023
It was no coincidence that Pep Guardiola’s side looked more dangerous with De Bruyne’s arrival on the pitch. Until the Belgian midfielder’s introduction, City had dominated possession but created little against a stubborn Arsenal defence.
With De Bruyne, and his running mate Phil Foden’s arrival on the pitch, the treble winners looked a lot more dangerous. The incision and cutting edge returned to the Premier League champion’s play with both on the pitch. It was no coincidence that both would be crucial in City’s opening goal. A mesmerizing turn and run by Foden set the play up, and De Bruyne set up Palmer for the opening goal. It was City at its best with De Bruyne at the heart of the move.
UNSTOPPABLE 🤩
Cole Palmer finds the top bins for @ManCity 🗑#CommunityShield pic.twitter.com/YkLIgBkWcF
— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) August 6, 2023
It was a positive sign for the packed fixture list to begin the season. Initial fears that Kevin De Bruyne may miss the start of the season were put to bed with his cameo on the pitch yesterday.
City’s midfield star based on his brief performance looks set for another big season for the treble winners. A fit and firing De Bruyne to start the season will greatly boost Pep Guardiola’s side.
