Kyle Walker Puts Kevin De Bruyne in the Same Bracket as Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo Citing Manchester City’s Comeback Win vs Newcastle United

Manchester City’s engine returned to life this past weekend, and the tremors were felt around the soccer world. No, it wasn’t Erling Haaland unleashing another blazing strike, but the much-awaited return of Kevin De Bruyne to the Manchester City lineup. And it seems like the Belgian star’s impact isn’t dimmed for his colleagues, as Kyle Walker placed him on the same table reserved for the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kevin De Bruyne’s absence due to injury left a void in City’s midfield. But, his return against the Magpies was a fairy tale, culminating in a tense 3-2 comeback victory for City, thanks to the Belgian’s crucial assist and a goal. Let’s delve deeper to uncover Walker’s excitement surrounding the Belgian’s return.

Kyle Walker places Kevin De Bruyne among the elite

After securing a place in the FIFA Men’s Best XI, Manchester City fullback Kyle Walker lauded the impact of Kevin De Bruyne on the triumphant City side. The Englishman’s admiration went beyond mere praise as he identified the Belgian maestro to two titans of the game: Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. “I think there’s only certain players, the likes of Messi and Ronaldo, that you can say are in the same bracket as Kevin – Kevin goes into that bracket for me,” Walker asserted boldly to FIFPRO.

Kyle Walker’s admiration for De Bruyne was evident as he declared the unwavering impact the Belgian brings to the game. The Englishman highlighted the palpable energy Kevin De Bruyne injects into the players whenever he steps on the pitch. “When he came on against Newcastle, you could feel that push, you could feel that energy and that excitement. He gives you a lift, and Kevin is at his best when he’s on the ball playing passes that you don’t think are even visible to play,” Walker added.

Kyle Walker’s sentiment resonates with the visionary playing style Kevin De Bruyne possesses. His defense-dissecting passes and vision remain a testament to the sporting genius of De Bruyne, making him a linchpin in Guardiola’s formidable lineup.

READ MORE: Frank Leboeuf: Kevin De Bruyne Among Top 3 Premier League MFs of All Time Alongside David Beckham & Gianfranco Zola

Kyle Walker shines in FIFA Men’s World XI

In addition to the praise showered upon Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker found himself among the elite, securing a deserved spot in the FIFA Men’s World XI. Walker was selected 22,000 professional men’s soccer players voted for the player. Reflecting on this honor, Walker remarked, “It’s a great honor to be voted for by your peers. They’re your biggest critics, and you play against them week in, week out.”

Kyle Walker’s bold assertion regarding De Bruyne’s stature alongside Messi and Ronaldo paints an interesting picture. The comeback victory against Newcastle not only showcased De Bruyne’s brilliance. But it also refurbished his position as one of the greats. All eyes will be on Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne when he returns to action.

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