In the bustling world of Manchester City, where trophies and accolades are a way of life, a recent announcement about Kevin De Bruyne has sparked a wave of pride among fans and teammates alike. The Belgian maestro, a linchpin of City’s dominance, was named to the FIFPRO World XI for the fifth consecutive season, a prestigious honor voted on by over 21,000 professional footballers worldwide. Among those quick to celebrate was Jack Grealish, whose heartfelt reaction underscored the deep bond between the two stars and highlighted De Bruyne’s enduring brilliance, even as his future with the club hangs in the balance.
The announcement, shared via Manchester City’s official Instagram with the caption “De Bruyne’s FIFTH successive FIFPRO World 11 award. 2019–2024,” was a testament to the 33-year-old’s remarkable consistency. Grealish, ever the supportive teammate, was among the first to like the post, a small but meaningful gesture that echoed his long-standing admiration for De Bruyne. “Kevin De Bruyne is my favourite player,” Grealish once said, reflecting on the Belgian’s influence. “He’s probably the most perfect footballer in the Premier League.” This latest accolade, placing De Bruyne alongside City teammates Ederson and Erling Haaland in the global elite, only reinforced Grealish’s reverence for the midfielder’s craft.
De Bruyne’s inclusion in the FIFPRO World XI comes at a pivotal moment. With his contract set to expire at the end of the 2024-25 season, Manchester City have opted against offering a new deal, signaling the end of an era. Despite this, De Bruyne remains a vital cog in Pep Guardiola’s machine, contributing 14 goals and assists across 37 appearances this season. His vision, pinpoint passing, and ability to unlock defenses have not waned, earning him praise from peers and rivals alike. “I’ve never seen a player that can execute that precisely at high speed,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, a former City assistant, marveling at De Bruyne’s ability to deliver 30-meter passes with surgical accuracy while sprinting.
Grealish’s reaction carries added weight given their shared history. When Grealish joined City from Aston Villa in a record-breaking £100 million transfer in 2021, he cited De Bruyne as a key reason for the move. “One of the reasons I joined City was to play alongside you brother!” Grealish wrote in an emotional Instagram tribute earlier this year, accompanied by a collage of their on-field celebrations and off-field camaraderie. Their partnership was instrumental in City’s historic 2022-23 treble, with De Bruyne’s 29 assists and Grealish’s 11 complementing each other in a campaign that culminated in the club’s first Champions League title. Together, they forged memories that have etched their names into City’s storied legacy.
Yet, the announcement arrives amid uncertainty. De Bruyne’s impending departure has attracted interest from clubs across Europe and beyond. Aston Villa, Grealish’s former club, are among those monitoring the situation, though his high wage demands could complicate any move. Liverpool have emerged as a surprise contender, while MLS sides and Saudi Pro League teams are also in the race. Despite these distractions, De Bruyne’s focus remains unwavering, as evidenced by his recent social media post celebrating Belgium’s 3-0 victory over Ukraine: “An amazing victory in the stadium where it all started.” Grealish, too, liked that post, a quiet nod to his teammate’s resilience.
For Grealish, the moment is bittersweet. His own future at City is uncertain, with reports suggesting he’s no longer central to Guardiola’s plans. Having started just six Premier League matches this season, the 29-year-old faces a crossroads, with Napoli among the clubs linked to a potential move. Yet, his support for De Bruyne reflects a bond that transcends their challenges. “The best I’ve ever had the pleasure of playing with for sure,” Grealish wrote in April, calling De Bruyne a “legend” as the Belgian announced his exit. That sentiment resonates now, as De Bruyne’s latest honor cements his status as one of football’s all-time greats.
As Manchester City navigate a turbulent season, marked by high-profile exits like Kyle Walker’s move to AC Milan, De Bruyne’s accolade is a reminder of the magic he’s brought to the Etihad. For Grealish, it’s a chance to honor a player who inspired his journey and shaped his time at City. As the Belgian prepares to write the final chapter of his City story, the football world watches, and Grealish stands firmly in his corner, celebrating a legacy that will endure long after the final whistle.
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