Explained: Why Kevin De Bruyne rejected chance to become Manchester City captain

The talismanic Belgian midfielder has formed part of Pep Guardiola’s leadership group for some time, with five senior figures asked to take on added responsibility within that pack. De Bruyne is happy to play his part, as a man that has always looked to lead by example.

De Bruyne prefers to inspire with actions, rather than words, and it is for that reason that he has never sought to become City’s skipper. According to The Athletic, the highly-decorated 33-year-old “would rather focus on playing than the extra responsibilities”.

Being a captain is reportedly “not really for him”, despite filling that role for his country. De Bruyne has been left frustrated there, though, and was caught on camera telling Belgium’s sporting director Franky Vercautern “I quit” following a 2-0 UEFA Nations League defeat to France.

De Bruyne said in a candid interview after that contest: “The standard is the top level and if you are not good enough you have to give everything, and some are not doing that.” Concerns regarding effort and application are not an issue at the Etihad Stadium – where Guardiola demands nothing but the best.

De Bruyne is happy towing that line and has filled a No.2 role under Blues skippers Fernandinho, Ilkay Gundogan and now Kyle Walker. Club captain Walker is said to relish “all the extra captaincy duties”, which is allowing De Bruyne to concentrate on producing his best during the final year of his City contract.