De Bruyne proves there's plenty of magic left

Just days after announcing he would leave Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne reminded everyone why he remains one of the most influential players in Premier League history. The Belgian maestro guided his side to a 5-2 comeback victory over Crystal Palace, scoring a stunning free-kick and adding an assist to his name.

The match got off to a chaotic start for Pep Guardiola's men, with Eberechi Eze and Chris Richards putting Palace 2-0 up inside the first 30 minutes. The visitors even came close to a third, but another Eze goal was ruled out for offside.

That was the cue for De Bruyne to take over. After hitting the post earlier in the match, he finally got on the scoresheet with a clever free-kick that beat Dean Henderson at the near post—his first league goal since December 14.

Goal, assist, and total control from the Belgian

Right after halftime, De Bruyne set up Mateo Kovacic at the edge of the box for a precise finish to make it 3-2. Later, he played a perfect through ball to Marmoush, but the Egyptian's shot was denied by Henderson. Though only credited with one assist, De Bruyne was at the heart of every attacking move.

The scoring was capped off by Nico O'Reilly, who volleyed in a fifth goal from outside the box to seal the win. The result keeps City in the race for a Champions League spot—they now sit fourth with 55 points, trailing Nottingham Forest by two and ahead of Chelsea and Newcastle United by the same margin.

The only downside for City was the injury to goalkeeper Ederson, who was forced off with a groin issue in the final 20 minutes.

As for Crystal Palace, who are safely mid-table with 43 points, all focus now shifts to their upcoming FA Cup semifinal against Aston Villa in two weeks.

But the night belonged to Kevin De Bruyne—a reminder that even on his way out, he remains one of the game’s greats.