Kevin De Bruyne, the Manchester City midfielder, has epitomised the club’s fighting spirit and contributed to their memorable victory against Internazionale in the Champions League Final. City’s treble victory comes at a high price on a personal level for De Bruyne, who managed a hamstring injury since the quarter-final match against Bayern Munich on 19 April 2023. Although forced to be off the field with injury in the first half against Inter, he played a significant role in the team’s success.
Destined for Glory
De Bruyne’s wife, Michèle Lacroix, always believed City would win the Champions League title. She maintained her conviction all through the season, through all matches, and even when her husband was forced to be off the field because of his hamstring injury. After their win, De Bruyne stated that it’s a little bit of a shame that he had to tell his wife she was right. This feeling of a predestined victory gave City the edge they needed.
Sacrifices for Victory
De Bruyne has been in the “red-zone” with minor tears since April 2023. Nevertheless, he continued to support his team in every match through injury. Matters became worse for him when during the Champions League final, he was forced off in the first half due to a grade three hamstring tear. The scan reports reveal that he may be out of the game for at least three months. Such things happen when you push your body through 57 games for club and country in a demanding season.
Not Always Smooth Sailing
Although City achieved their treble, they did not play their usual style of football against Inter. Especially in the first half, City showed a lack of aggression, and Rodri could not get anything going. Even though their opponents played above themselves, City had a few gears to move up and ended up winning the final.
Destiny with Some Luck on Their Side
While Manchester City’s win felt like destiny, there was also luck on their side. Inter could have scored in the 89th minute had Lukaku headed the ball a little differently. City had a little less to worry about after that moment. Finally, their significant triumph should be seen as a counterpoint to their undeserved semi-final defeat to Real Madrid the previous year or the agony of the VAR-dictated exit against Tottenham in the 2019 quarter-final.
Celebrations and Memories
City supporters will have memories of this great game that they will cherish forever. Even though they did not face airport delays like after Liverpool’s 2005 triumph, fans faced a testing schlep in and out of the Ataturk stadium by road. Istanbul traffic is always difficult to navigate, where seat belts in the back of high-speed taxis are optional. Manchester City’s supporters braved the intense traffic to witness their team’s historic victory.
Masculinity and Football Culture
De Bruyne’s fight for his team through his injuries demonstrates an essential characteristic of masculinity. It’s a type of masculine culture that shows toughness, resilience, and a never-give-up attitude. However, it is important not to see these qualities as inherently masculine. Women can have similar qualities. Therefore, it is high time that we acknowledge that such qualities arise from an individual’s personality and not just their gender identity.
Advice to Upcoming Footballers
Any footballer or athlete who wants to achieve greatness must put in a lot of effort and time. To perform at a professional level, it is crucial to maintain your fitness and push your body to the limits. At times, an athlete must sacrifice their time at the cost of personal relationships. Any injury on the part of a player can lead to setbacks. Nevertheless, a positive attitude and determination to overcome tough times will be vital.
<< photo by Thgusstavo Santana >>
