'The Kevin we have known for many years!' - Pep Guardiola hails Manchester City inspiration De Bruyne after stunning performance in thrilling 5-2 win over Crystal Palace

De Bruyne starred with a goal and an assist as the reigning champions came back from an early two-goal deficit to beat Crystal Palace 5-2 in the Premier League at Etihad Stadium on Sunday. City boss Guardiola was full of praise for the Belgian midfielder as he rolled back the years to produce an inspirational performance.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Guardiola said: "The Kevin we have known for many years. I know he's struggled the last year and a half. He's free without pain and completely different. The way we played helped him a lot with incredible runners, the young lads, the full-backs."

De Bruyne has been plagued with multiple injuries since the summer of 2023 and has performed sporadically for his club in the last one-and-a-half seasons. With the player now all set to exit the club at the end of the 2024-25 campaign, he would aim to finish his 10-year-long journey with the English champions on a high. In the current campaign, the 33-year-old has scored five goals and provided eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions.

Guardiola's side will be back in action in the Premier League on April 19 when they take on Everton at Goodison Park.