Assessing Kevin De Bruyne | Insights from Premier League Experts

 Assessing Kevin De Bruyne | Insights from Premier League Experts

Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Manchester City at St. James Park on January 13, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England.(Image-Getty)

The Scout's panel of Fantasy Premier League (FPL) experts deliberates on the implications of Kevin De Bruyne's (£10.4m) stellar return, where he garnered 12 points with a goal and assist in a brief substitute appearance against Newcastle United.

**Lee Bonfield (@FPLFamily):** With Manchester City set for favorable fixtures, acquiring De Bruyne seems imperative, given his explosive return. As Salah and Son are away at international tournaments, FPL managers likely have the funds to make this move. The challenge arises when Salah and Son return, but banking on De Bruyne's FPL points in the meantime is a sound strategy.

**Ben Crabtree (@FC_CrabDogg):** Advises swift action in acquiring De Bruyne, suggesting a separation of decisions regarding Erling Haaland (£13.9m). Emphasizes the importance of having both players if they perform well simultaneously, making it nonsensical to sell De Bruyne for Haaland later.

**Nick Harris (@WGTA_Nick):** Argues for an immediate purchase, noting the prevalence of triple Manchester City assets in FPL teams. Acknowledges the upcoming challenge of balancing budgets when Salah, Son, and Haaland return.

**Pras (@Pras_FPL):** Cautions against immediate action, emphasizing De Bruyne's unlikelihood to start matches soon. With tight schedules in Gameweeks 22 and 23, and the looming Double Gameweek 25, Pras suggests waiting before allocating a significant budget to De Bruyne.

**Mark McGettigan (@FPLGeneral):** Prioritizes fixtures and minutes when making FPL acquisitions. Acknowledges City's favorable upcoming fixtures, including the Double Gameweek, but remains cautious about De Bruyne's consistent playing time. Advises keeping the door open for a potential inclusion in Double Gameweek 25.

**Az Phillips (@FPLBlackBox_Az):** Expresses surprise at De Bruyne's current 14% ownership, cautioning against premature excitement. Despite an enticing fixture against Burnley, Az Phillips highlights De Bruyne's ongoing fitness building and potential bench role.

**Sam Bonfield (@FPLFamily):** Acknowledges De Bruyne's impactful cameo against Newcastle but remains cautious. Cites De Bruyne's own admission about not yet sustaining high-intensity performances for extended periods. Awaits De Bruyne's playing time in the FA Cup tie against Spurs before considering an investment.