Belgian midfielder describes award as "a big honour"
Kevin De Bruyne has been named as the PFA Player of the Year for the 2020/21 season.
The Belgian international saw off competition from the likes of Sadio Mane, Danny Ings and Nick Pope to win the award.
De Bruyne scored 13 goals along with a record-equalling 20 assists during an impressive campaign from the midfielder.
“It is a big honour,” he said at the virtual ceremony.
“To be voted by your colleagues, your competitors from other teams who we play against on the field, is amazing.
“It is maybe strange that I’m the first one at City, with all the good players who played there before and are still playing, but it is nice to represent the Club.
“I think it is [the ultimate honour] because you compete against them [fellow professionals].
“They want to win the trophies; they want to be the best. It is everybody voting, not a few players, so that means you have done really well in the season.”
Manager Pep Guardiola led the congratulations: “To win this award is an outstanding achievement, and Kevin is so deserving of it.
“To be recognised by other players is the most that any footballer can ask for, because they understand not only what it is to compete against you, but also the level of commitment it takes to play at the very top.
“There have been many great players in this club’s history, especially over the last decade working with Roberto, Manuel and myself.
"We have won many titles, but Kevin is the first to receive this prestigious award. This recognition is also a tribute to all the fantastic players who have come before him.
“We are so proud of Kevin and this will only strengthen what he means to this club and our fans. From all the players, coaches and staff at Manchester City, I would like to congratulate him.”