“Never seen a player other than Messi influence a game this much” - Fans stunned as Kevin De Bruyne inspires Manchester City to win over Newcastle

Kevin De Bruyne was pivotal for Manchester City as they came from behind to claim a huge win over Newcastle United in the Premier League on January 13. The champions had to show a great deal of mettle to overcome their opponents and claim a sixth successive win.

Manchester City have missed some of the most important members of their treble-winning squad this season, especially De Bruyne. The experienced midfielder suffered a hamstring injury in the first game of the season and only returned to full fitness in late December after spending months on the sidelines.

The Cityzens were without Erling Haaland and John Stones for the clash, as Pep Guardiola announced before the match, and lost Ederson early in the game. They took the lead, but conceded two goals in two minutes as the Magpies showed their fighting spirit.

Kevin De Bruyne was introduced off the bench with his side 2-1 down in the 69th minute, and he needed just five touches and five minutes to make an impact. He ended the game with a goal and an assist for Guardiola's side, drawing praise from fans on X.

"Kevin De Bruyne the greatest player to grace this league"

"Kevin De Bruyne assist. He is insane. They’re winning the league."

See more reactions from X below;

The Belgian playmaker recorded an assist just 17 minutes into his return in the FA Cup last week against Huddersfield Town to help his side on their way to a 5-0 win.

His performance against Newcastle was much more inspired, as he provided a clear difference for his side against a side that has defeated them once this season.

Earlier this month, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp referred to the 32-year-old's return from injury as causing the "whole country to shake." The midfielder has proven the German manager right with his performance for the champions.

Kevin De Bruyne magic propels Manchester City to second

Manchester City had to fight their way to three points at St James' Park against hosts Newcastle United in the absence of their top scorer. They went ahead when Bernardo Silva flicked home an effort in the first half (26'), before Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon put the home side ahead (35', 37').

De Bruyne strolled through the Magpies' half five minutes after his introduction before firing a very precise effort into the bottom corner for the equalizer (74'). The Belgian then provided an inch-perfect assist over the top for youngster Oscar Bobb to latch onto and score a 91st-minute winner.

Manchester City have now moved up to second on the log, two points behind rivals Liverpool, who have played the same number of games as them. Newcastle, on the other hand, have lost an eighth match in their last 11 to drop to 10th in the standings.