Frank Lampard reveals why Kevin De Bruyne was sold by Chelsea in 2014 ahead of Manchester City clash

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard has revealed that intense competition for places was the reason Kevin De Bruyne left the Blues in 2014. The Belgian superstar has since established himself as one of the best midfielders in the world.

Kevin De Bruyne joined Chelsea back in January 2012 from Genk for a reported fee of £7 million. He remained at Genk on loan until the end of the season, before joining Bundesliga side Werder Bremen on loan during the 2012-13 season.

Upon his return to Chelsea the following season, he struggled to integrate himself into Jose Mourinho's side, only making nine appearances for the club. De Bruyne then joined Wolfsburg, rebuilding his reputation in European football.

Manchester City then signed the Belgium international ahead of the 2015-16 season, where he has gone on to become one of the best midfielders in the world.

Frank Lampard, who was still an active player for the Blues when De Bruyne was there, gave his thoughts on why the Belgian left. He addressed the question during a pre-match press conference (via METRO):

"Kevin was fighting more for the No.10 position or one of the two wide players."

"When he was with us in his younger days, we were probably quite well stacked in those attacking areas. Eden [Hazard] was here, [Andre] Schurrle was here, Juan Mata was here and what I remember from Kevin was a real hunger and desire to come in and play."

He added:

"I don’t personally know the intricacies of what happened at the time between him, the club and the manager but looking back now I respect the fact he did leave to play regular football. You can see that hunger in his game and he’s always wanted to showcase that talent he’s got."

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Manchester City superstar Kevin De Bruyne will be looking to continue his good form against Chelsea

Manchester City superstar Kevin De Bruyne will be looking to make an impact during the Cityzens' upcoming clash against Chelsea at the Etihad later today (May 21).

Manchester City were officially declared Premier League champions yesterday following Arsenal's 1-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest. Pep Guardiola's side are currently on a 12-match winning streak and have 85 points with three games to go.

Kevin De Bruyne will be aiming to continue his sensational season to date. He has scored 10 goals and provided 28 assists in 45 appearances in all competitions and will be looking to wreak havoc on a struggling Chelsea side.

Moreover, Manchester City and De Bruyne are firmly in the hunt for the treble. They will face Inter Milan in the Champions League final (June 10), and Manchester United in the FA Cup final (June 3).