After Surpassing Wayne Rooney, Kevin De Bruyne Says Assists Are a “Bonus” as He Shares Podium With Ryan Giggs & Cesc Fabregas

It’s refreshing to see Kevin De Bruyne back in action. After months of exile since August 2023, the Belgian international has emphatically returned to the pitch. On Wednesday, the attacking midfielder etched his name in the Premier League history books by sharing the stage with soccer icons Ryan Giggs and Cesc Fàbregas for the most assists, having surpassed Wayne Rooney. While supporters rejoice over this monumental accomplishment, De Bruyne humbly acknowledges doing a ‘good job’ in providing for his teammates.

De Bruyne added another outstanding assist to his record in the 3-1 win against Burnley, skillfully producing a first-half free-kick that set up Julian Alvarez’s spectacular second strike of the game. With this, De Bruyne’s total Premier League assists for City increased to 104, successfully overtaking Rooney. He now stands third behind Cesc Fàbregas (111) and Ryan Giggs (162). Speaking about his triumph, he said, “Obviously, it’s great to be around these players [Ryan Giggs and Cesc Fàbregas] who have played so many games and played for the biggest teams as well.”

The former Chelsea man is more confident enough to keep up with his assist-making prowess. “It means that I’m doing a good job providing for my teammates. Obviously, I need them to score for me; otherwise, I don’t get them [assists]. In nine years, I’ve won many things and that’s what I want to do—this [the assists] is a bonus,” he added. 

Indeed, it is quite a tremendous achievement for De Bruyne. He certainly would be looking to claim the top spot on the list. He certainly could have clinched this feat months ago if he hadn’t been sidelined. But it seems the injury gave him a much-needed break.

Kevin De Bruyne is ‘better prepared’ after months of injury exile 

Earlier, Kevin De Bruyne insisted that the injury gave him a deserved break from the congested fixtures that usually exhaust players. “I think I’m better prepared [after injury]. The problem is our schedule. We live from match to match and have to play every three days,” he said. The Belgian star insisted that players unable to make a proper recovery or even train. 

READ MORE: Erling Haaland Slams Fake News of Spending Millions on a Private Jet

The midfielder also recognized the importance of taking a break from the action after maintaining such a high level of performance for more than ten years. It not only calmed him mentally but also helped him get back on track. Additionally, the Sky Blues star also revealed that he was able to spend quality time with his family. Nevertheless, the break is over for De Bruyne. Now, he will be focused on ending the season on a high note.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Four Goals in a Game