In a brilliant second-half cameo, Kevin De Bruyne set up Jeremy Doku in Manchester City’s long-awaited comeback from injury.
City fans applauded and sang his name as the Belgian made his first appearance since August, instantly donning the armband and setting up Doku with a stunning lobbed assist.
The 32-year-old limped out against Burnley on the first night of the season with a hamstring injury, and fans have been waiting for his return for a long time.
Any fears that his powers had deteriorated after such a lengthy absence were swiftly dispelled when he provided for Doku within 20 minutes of entering the room.
City easily defeated Huddersfield, with Phil Foden scoring twice and Julian Alvarez also scoring, while Ben Jackson scored an own goal for the visitors.
Fans reacted positively to their hero’s comeback on social media.
‘De Bruyne has only been on the field for 30 seconds and he’s already influencing goals…..he’s the best midfielder of all time,’ one user said on X, formerly Twitter.
‘Kevin De Bruyne returns to Manchester City action after a five-month absence, pure delight guy,’ added another.
‘KEVIN DE BRUYNE COMES ON,’ exclaimed a fan account, showing old photos of Pep Guardiola getting passionate.
‘KEVIN DE BRUYNE, YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW HAPPY I AM,’ exclaimed one.
‘KEVIN DE BRUYNE IS BACK ON THE PITCH AGAIN I PRAYED FOR TIMES LIKE THIS,’ exclaimed another.
Pep Guardiola remarked ahead of the game that he didn’t expect his superstar to be in peak form, but there was little evidence that he had been out for half a season.
‘I don’t expect Kevin to play at his level right now. ‘We can’t force him or any other player in this scenario to return from a long injury,’ stated the Spaniard.
There were hopes that he might make his return during the Club World Cup when he was included to their squad, but no one will blame him for focusing on making a thorough recovery from the treatment table.