Is Kevin De Bruyne the best midfielder in the World?
The name Kevin De Bruyne has often been mentioned in discussions about the best midfielders in football today. The Belgian playmaker, known for his incredible technique, vision, and versatility, has achieved tremendous success with Manchester City and the Belgian national team. But does that make him the best midfielder in the world?
De Bruyne’s Rise to Stardom
De Bruyne’s journey began at Genk, where he played a key role in their 2010–11 Belgian Pro League win. A brief and unsuccessful spell at Chelsea led to a loan move to Werder Bremen, where he began to show his potential. In 2014, he joined Wolfsburg for £18 million and quickly established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s top players, helping the club win the DFB-Pokal.
In 2015, De Bruyne signed for Manchester City in a then-club-record £54 million deal. Since then, he has been central to City’s dominance in English football, winning six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League. His ability to dictate games from midfield, create chances, and score crucial goals has been key to City’s success.
A Complete Playmaker
What sets De Bruyne apart is his versatility and ability to excel in various roles. He can operate as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder, or even as a winger. His passing range, accuracy with both feet, and deadly long-range shots make him a constant threat.
De Bruyne’s work rate and intelligence off the ball allow him to find space and create opportunities, making him one of the most feared playmakers in modern football.
Despite not being the fastest or strongest player, De Bruyne’s dribbling skills, tactical awareness, and ability to break down defences make him invaluable to any team. He also excels in set-pieces, providing pinpoint crosses and dangerous free-kicks.
International Success and Recognition
De Bruyne has been equally impressive on the international stage, earning over 100 caps for Belgium. He played a key role in Belgium’s third-place finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and has captained the team since 2023. Throughout his career, he has been named in numerous prestigious teams of the year, including the UEFA Team of the Year and FIFA FIFPro World XI.
De Bruyne has also won the Premier League Playmaker of the Season three times and the PFA Players’ Player of the Year twice. He has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or multiple times, finishing third in 2022 and fourth in 2023.
Is He the Best?
The debate over whether De Bruyne is the best midfielder in the world often includes players like Luka Modric and Bruno Fernandes. While all these players bring unique skills to the table, De Bruyne’s combination of creativity, work rate, and consistency sets him apart.
His influence on Manchester City’s success, his ability to perform in multiple roles, and his consistent high-level performances make a strong case for De Bruyne being the best midfielder of his generation. Whether it’s providing assists, scoring from distance, or leading the team with his vision and leadership, Kevin De Bruyne continues to define what it means to be an elite midfielder. At the moment, De Bruyne is out with injury but is expected to return after the International break.
For now, it’s hard to argue against the claim that Kevin De Bruyne is the best midfielder in the world. His record speaks for itself, and his performances continue to elevate the game.
