Kevin De Bruyne’s football journey is a prime example of a player thriving after being overlooked by a major club. Chelsea, who once had the Belgian star on their books, may still regret their decision to part ways with him back in 2014. During his time at Stamford Bridge, De Bruyne struggled to make an impression; he was limited to just nine appearances during the 2012–2013 season, rarely given the platform to showcase his true talent.
Seeking more consistent playing time, Chelsea loaned the midfielder to Bundesliga side Werder Bremen in 2012. It was there that De Bruyne’s abilities truly began to shine, as he recorded 10 goals and 10 assists across 36 matches—a clear sign of the quality he possessed. Despite his successful loan spell, Chelsea decided not to integrate him into their plans, instead selling him permanently to Wolfsburg in 2014 for a reported sum of £18 million.
At Wolfsburg, De Bruyne’s career skyrocketed. He became a standout figure in the Bundesliga, leading the German club to notable victories in both the German Cup and Super Cup. His influence on the team was immense, earning him the prestigious Bundesliga Player of the Year award in 2015. Naturally, his performances caught the attention of Europe’s elite clubs. That same year, Manchester City swooped in and secured his signature for a then-club record transfer fee of £54.5 million.
Since his arrival at the Etihad Stadium, De Bruyne has been nothing short of sensational. He evolved into a central figure under Pep Guardiola, playing a critical role in the club’s domestic and European success. During his time with Manchester City, he has collected an impressive haul of silverware, including six Premier League titles, five Carabao Cups, two FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League trophy. His contributions have firmly cemented his reputation as one of the most successful midfielders in Premier League history.
Former Chelsea and England defender *Ashley Cole* has recently shared his thoughts on the situation, suggesting that the Blues could still benefit greatly from what De Bruyne brings to the table. *Cole* highlighted De Bruyne’s exceptional football intelligence, wealth of experience, and leadership qualities as factors that could prove invaluable to Chelsea. Even if fitness issues restrict him to around 30 appearances a season, *Cole* believes De Bruyne’s presence both on the pitch and within the locker room would be a tremendous boost.
With 106 goals and 176 assists in 414 career appearances across all competitions, De Bruyne’s statistics emphasize his consistent excellence. For Chelsea, the decision to part ways with him remains one of their most painful missteps, particularly when reflecting on the world-class player he has become.
