Kevin De Bruyne’s football journey is a classic example of a player who thrived after being overlooked by a major club. Chelsea, who once had the Belgian midfielder on their books, may now regret parting ways with him back in 2014. De Bruyne’s time at Stamford Bridge was short and limited; he made just nine appearances for the Blues during the 2012–2013 season and didn’t have much of a chance to showcase his potential.
In search of regular playing time, De Bruyne was loaned out to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in 2012. There, he quickly made an impact, registering 10 goals and 10 assists in just 36 games—a sign of the talent he possessed. Despite this impressive loan spell, Chelsea allowed him to move permanently to another German club, Wolfsburg, in 2014 for a reported £18 million.
At Wolfsburg, De Bruyne’s development accelerated. He became one of the standout players in the Bundesliga, guiding the club to both the German Cup and the Super Cup. His performances were so influential that he was voted the Bundesliga Player of the Year in 2015. This stellar form caught the attention of Manchester City, who signed him later that year for a then-club record of £54.5 million.
Since joining City, De Bruyne has been nothing short of exceptional. He has become a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s side, helping the club win a multitude of trophies. His accolades include six Premier League titles, five Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League trophy. These achievements have firmly established him as one of the most successful midfielders in Premier League history.
Former Chelsea and England defender Ashley Cole has recently suggested that the Blues could still benefit from De Bruyne’s talents, despite his history with injuries. Cole believes that De Bruyne’s experience, football intelligence, and leadership would be valuable assets to Chelsea’s current squad. Even if his physical condition restricts him to around 30 games per season, his influence on and off the pitch could still prove vital.
De Bruyne’s career statistics further emphasize his impact—106 goals and 176 assists in 414 matches across all competitions. These numbers highlight just how consistently influential he has been throughout his career. For Chelsea, letting him go remains a decision that continues to haunt them, especially considering the elite-level player he has become.
