Manchester City has experienced inconsistent performances from some key players this season. While Erling Haaland has scored a significant number of goals, there have been periods where he hasn’t fully displayed his capabilities.
Phil Foden is another player who has faced challenges. Despite contributing to 16 goals, his Champions League goals were against weaker opposition. Statistically, Foden’s performance metrics compared to his Premier League peers show a decline in areas like successful dribbles and progressive play.
This season highlights a potential downturn for City under Pep Guardiola. Even Kevin De Bruyne hasn’t consistently provided his usual spark in the 2025/26 season.
Could this be De Bruyne’s final season at Manchester City? His contract is expiring, raising questions about his future given his age, injuries, and slightly diminished form.
Kevin De Bruyne’s Season by the Numbers for Man City
A hamstring injury impacted De Bruyne’s start to the season. He started only 18 of 29 games for Manchester City in all competitions, scoring four goals and providing seven assists.
Compared to other Premier League attacking midfielders this season, De Bruyne’s stats are lower in successful take-ons and progressive carries, although he remains in the top tier for touches in the opposition box. These statistics are below his usual high standards, suggesting it might be time for the 33-year-old to consider his next steps.
With De Bruyne’s contract ending, City might focus on younger talent from their academy and recent signings. In the past, City has released young players who have later excelled elsewhere, such as Morgan Rogers, Roméo Lavia, Jadon Sancho, and James Trafford.
However, could Jamie Gittens, who left in 2020, be their biggest regret?
Man City’s £0 Departure of ‘England’s Next Superstar’
Jamie Gittens is currently outperforming De Bruyne. After limited appearances for Man City’s youth team, Gittens moved to Borussia Dortmund in 2020, similar to Jadon Sancho’s path.
After impressing in Dortmund’s youth ranks, he debuted in the Bundesliga in 2021/22. Dortmund recognized his potential and extended his contract.
Gittens was gradually integrated into Dortmund’s first team, with appearances increasing over the seasons, including a Champions League final appearance. Now 20, Gittens aims to follow Sancho and Bellingham’s trajectory as a stepping stone to a major transfer.
| Gittens’ Bundesliga Stats This Season | |
|---|---|
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Big chances created | 6 |
| Successful dribbles per game | 2.9 |
| Key passes per game | 0.8 |
| Shots per game | 1.8 |
| Via Sofascore | |
Described as “England’s next superstar,” Gittens has outperformed De Bruyne in key performance indicators this season, demonstrating his high caliber.
Jamie Gittens vs. Kevin De Bruyne: A Performance Comparison
De Bruyne has 11 goal contributions for City this season. Gittens has surpassed this with 11 goals and four assists for Dortmund, including four Champions League goals.
Comparing Gittens to his peers in Europe’s top leagues, he ranks exceptionally high in progressive carries, successful take-ons, and carries into the penalty area, highlighting his effectiveness in attack despite his youth.
In contrast, De Bruyne ranks much lower in progressive carries and successful take-ons compared to his peers in Europe’s top leagues. Gittens’ superior stats suggest a bright future, with potential for a move to a top club. Arsenal are reportedly considering an £83m bid for him.
Gittens’ consistent high-level performances, surpassing even De Bruyne in some metrics, underscore his burgeoning talent.
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Vihaan Mehrotra