Kevin De Bruyne has been named PFA Player of the Year for the second successive season.
The Belgian becomes just the third player to win back-to-back awards, following Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo.
It was another superb campaign for the City midfielder, who was a key figure in their Premier League and Carabao Cup successes, playing 40 matches across all competitions, scoring 10 goals and assisting a further 18.
He also played a crucial role in their path to the first ever Champions League final, scoring in the last-16, quarter-final and semi-final stage.
Voted for by his fellow professionals, the prestigious award recognises De Bruyne’s sustained excellence throughout the campaign, which also saw him named in the PFA’s Team of the Year for the third time.
Speaking to official Manchester City TV De Bruyne said, “It’s crazy!” in reaction to winning successive awards.
“You talk about two legends in the game – one of the best strikers ever [Henry] and one of the top two players in the world [Ronaldo], so to do the same thing as them is crazy.
“I really enjoy playing in this team. I signed a new contract knowing the playing style.
“I am really happy here. We compete for every trophy and that suits my competitive nature. The team has been unbelievable and push me to my best level every day.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain :
“We are so pleased to see Kevin collect this award again.
“To win it once is a superb achievement – but to win in successive seasons is special. Only the very best manage that.
“He is a world-class player who produces really high-quality performances on a consistent basis.
“Kevin’s influence off the field is growing, too. Not only is he a player who can influence matches and produce key moments with his technical quality, he is a leader for this football club and a shining example to our young players of how to behave if you want to be a top professional.
“We are very proud of him and I am sure he will continue at this level for many years.”
