The Manchester City faithful held their breath as Pep Guardiola readied his substitutes during their dominant 2-0 win over Huddersfield Town. On came Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku, KDB's return sending shivers down the Terriers' spines. Within minutes, City had netted another, and soon De Bruyne and Doku combined for a stunning fifth goal, capping a near-perfect day.

But Huddersfield wasn't the only one quaking. De Bruyne's triumphant return sent a clear message to City's Premier League rivals: City means business. Having overcome a season plagued by injuries, including a hamstring surgery for De Bruyne , the Kevin De Bruyne return fuels their assault on all competitions.

A Season Defined by De Bruyne's Absence

City has weathered its fair share of injury woes this season, with John Stones, Erling Haaland, and others sidelined. But none compared to the void left by De Bruyne, who injured his hamstring in the season opener. His influence is undeniable – 250 goal contributions (96 goals, 154 assists) and the ability to single-handedly win matches. His absence forced Guardiola to improvise, turning Julian Alvarez into a makeshift No.10.

The Kevin De Bruyne Return Effect

Despite winning their first six games without De Bruyne, City's struggles started soon after. Between late September and Christmas, they won only four out of 11 matches, often lacking the cutting edge he provides. Kevin de Bruyne after injury return brought immense relief to Guardiola.

"We are incredibly delighted he is back. Because Kevin helps to win games and there are few [like him] in the world," Guardiola beamed after the Huddersfield game. "He has a special, special ability to find passes with our runners like Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, Matheus Nunes, Oscar Bobb. Kevin is exceptional, unique."

Capitalizing on Rivals' Slip-Ups

While City admirably kept pace without De Bruyne, they trailed leaders Liverpool by five points at the halfway stage. However, during City's Club World Cup campaign, their rivals – Liverpool, Arsenal, and Aston Villa – squandered valuable points. When City returned, they hit the ground running, while their rivals continued to falter.

Now, with a game in hand on all their rivals, City sits third, two points behind league leaders Villa and five behind Liverpool. Their next six weeks look promising, with a mid-season break in Abu Dhabi for De Bruyne, Stones, and Haaland to complete their recoveries.

Kevin De Bruyne Second Half Return

History favors City in the second half of the season. In Guardiola's five title-winning years, they've only been top twice on New Year's Eve, but always found ways to catch up. Remarkable winning streaks have been their hallmark, and with De Bruyne back, there's every reason to believe they'll do it again.

Conclusion

Kevin De Bruyne's return is a game-changer for Manchester City. With their key players nearing full fitness, a favorable schedule, and Guardiola's proven second-half prowess, City looks primed to unleash a storm on the Premier League and beyond. Only a fool would bet against them adding more silverware to their already impressive trophy cabinet.

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