Manchester City talisman Kevin De Bruyne has been hailed as the Premier League’s most feared opponent by rival players.
Pep Guardiola has been without his talisman for much of the start of the season but De Bruyne’s quality remains fresh in the minds of his rivals, who continue to rate him as the best the league has to offer.
De Bruyne’s immense quality was displayed in City’s opening league fixture against Tottenham, where he offered an immediate threat despite only playing twenty minutes in a loss. New team-mate Jack Grealish often spoke about the Belgian’s ability to provide a unique dynamic threat, as the Englishman admitted he could never predict what De Bruyne would do next when they faced off as competitors.
Despite suffering injuries that prevented him from reaching the incredible heights of the 2019/20 season, De Bruyne was still voted the PFA Player of the Season by his peers, a testament to his enduring respect from rival players.
Speaking to Prime Video in a video published this week, a selection of Premier League stars admitted De Bruyne is the player they fear the most in the division.
“For me, it would have to be Kevin De Bruyne,” said Troy Deeney, who now plies his trade for hometown club Birmingham City.
“He just has everything. Right foot, left foot, fast, very smart, can defend if he needs to, puts in a lot of energy.”
This opinion was backed up by Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes, who admits he dreads having to defend against the 30-year-old.
“I’d say probably De Bruyne,” said the flying Englishman.
“When you come up against him, and you are in that situation, you realise what a good player he is.
“He can do everything, really. I’m not a defender myself, so when I am defending against him, it is definitely not easy for me.”
Another player to admit De Bruyne is the best the division has to offer was Sergio Reguilon, left-back for Tottenham.
“I think Kevin De Bruyne,” the Spaniard declared.
“Too intelligent. He’s a very good player, obviously.”
Liverpool star Trent Alexander-Arnold suggested De Bruyne was the best in the Premier League at the moment. Still, the best player he’s faced in the league was Eden Hazard, formerly of Chelsea.
Aston Villa defender Matt Targett identified Mohamed Salah as the league’s number one player, whilst Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe came with a somewhat surprising answer, stating Aaron Wan-Bissaka was his toughest opponent.
