Paul Merson offers blunt acceptance of fault over Kevin De Bruyne opinion in 2015

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Published on 2024-02-15 08:00:00

Pundit Paul Merson has recently acknowledged and accepted his past comments regarding Manchester City’s acquisition of Kevin De Bruyne in 2015. The former professional footballer had been critical of the club’s successful negotiation for the Belgian international, claiming that the price paid was far greater than the player’s actual worth.

At the time, De Bruyne was playing in the German football league after difficult stints with Chelsea and other clubs. Manchester City announced the signing of De Bruyne in 2015 for a reported club-record fee of £55 million. Merson had expressed doubts about the move, stating, “I just don’t see this, I just really do not see this at all.”

However, in a recent episode of the ‘Football’s Greatest’ podcast, Merson admitted that De Bruyne has proven him wrong. He praised De Bruyne’s exceptional performance since returning to Manchester City and compared his playmaking abilities to Dennis Bergkamp, acknowledging his intelligence and vision on the field.

Reflecting on his comments from 2015, Merson said, “He’s proved me wrong over the years, 100 per cent. I’m one of his biggest fans now… It wasn’t a lazy, off the cuff quote. I’d seen him enough times at Chelsea, I’d seen him and it didn’t work out for him at Chelsea. But wow. What a player.”

Since returning from a five-month layoff earlier this season, De Bruyne has been instrumental for Manchester City, delivering two goals and six assists in his seven appearances in 2024. His recent performance against FC Copenhagen in the UEFA Champions League further showcased his talent as he provided a goal and assist in their 3-1 victory.

Merson’s acceptance of his misjudgment regarding De Bruyne’s worth reflects the player’s incredible skill and impact on the field since joining Manchester City. Despite his initial skepticism about the high-value transfer, Merson has become one of De Bruyne’s biggest fans and recognizes his exceptional football abilities.

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